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Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

March 15, 1868

Text

Vassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. March 15, 1868. My dearest Mother: I have Just come from prayer meeting and will try to write you before I go to bed if I can collect my thoughts sufficiently. This is such a delightful day or rather has been, and I have just about lived out of doors. Saidee and I were out two hours before dinner and since chapel have been out again. There is very little mud for such a time of year, and the walks are very hard and dry. Yesterday forenoon Lizzie Coffin and I... Show moreVassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. March 15, 1868. My dearest Mother: I have Just come from prayer meeting and will try to write you before I go to bed if I can collect my thoughts sufficiently. This is such a delightful day or rather has been, and I have just about lived out of doors. Saidee and I were out two hours before dinner and since chapel have been out again. There is very little mud for such a time of year, and the walks are very hard and dry. Yesterday forenoon Lizzie Coffin and I walked as much as five miles over mud, snow and everything bad. We had a splendid time - went to the top of a high hill where we could see the Highlands, Cats kills, and Fishkill Mts. We wore gymnastic suits and rubber boots - the latter borrowed for the occasion. I enjoyed the whole of it till I began to grow tired. I lay on the lounge two or three hours, then took a bath and felt nicely - so that I went to the sophomore meeting and acted the part of Mrs. Jixmewin ,i.e. Jiniwin, in a scene from Old Curiosity Shop. I am just happy today every way- The spring air is so exhilarating. I am so glad the snow is going off. Oh dear, how fast the girls are talking. I can't write anything at all and you will be perfectly disgusted with it. Don't let father see it. Just tell him I am well and send my love to him. I am ashamed to have him see it. Three weeks from next Wednesday spring vacation commences and I shall not touch a book all the while unless I am a little behind up and want to makeA. I wish I had some calico here and I would make myself a dressbut I have no chart nor anything so I can't. I am glad Grade was so much pleased with her letter from me. Could she read it herself? I certainly cannot write at all tonight. I want to have you burn this letter Just as quick as you can for no one must ever see it. I remember the fit that Lucius had once, hope little Emily will not have such a time as Grade did that summer when you and father were gone. I shudder to think of it. I received a nice paper from father yesterday and am so glad of the news I got. There's a girl here by the name of Talcott who is really six feet tall. The looks like a giraffe. Now I can't write and am not going to try any more. I will do better next time. With a heart full of love Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

June 21, 1868

Text

Vassar College. June 21. 1868 My dear Mother, Don't think that I am married or have changed my name through any legislative means to correspond with the above monogram. It is some paper that Hattie Drower gave me to write a letter for her on business to the city. She has been ill for three weeks. How funny that we should go home together again and she should be sick Just as she was before! I can hardly realise thatwe have passed our last sabbath of this year at Vassar College. Dr.... Show moreVassar College. June 21. 1868 My dear Mother, Don't think that I am married or have changed my name through any legislative means to correspond with the above monogram. It is some paper that Hattie Drower gave me to write a letter for her on business to the city. She has been ill for three weeks. How funny that we should go home together again and she should be sick Just as she was before! I can hardly realise thatwe have passed our last sabbath of this year at Vassar College. Dr. Raymond preached the Baccalaureate sermon this afternoon. It was one hour in length and on the text "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches." I never was so sleepy in my life as during the first half but towards the last I became more lively and enjoyed his address to the Seniors very much. This is a very cool day, not at all like the past six or eight. I do hope it will last till after I get home.Monday Morn. I have Just heard from Levi in answer to my letter to him last week. He says he will meet me with pleasure and said I must write him what morning I would be there. I thought after the letter was posted that I had forgotten to state that important item. I have just written him that it would be Friday morning. Now if you don't hear any thing of me that night you may conclude that I am with Emma but I shall be at Lisbon in the "bosom of my family" if not left by the cars. A letter from Nell this morning tells me that Amanda has a little girl. Dark hair, deep-blue eyes and weight nine pounds. She says Mr. Alber is almost out of his wits and acts worse than Frank- Amanda is quite well and comfortable. I must not write more for I have some little things to attend to. Wont it be nice if this cool weather continues. Remember that this is the last letter and in two nights after you get it I shall be "wid ye". Your happy Mary - Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Go by all means to see Hattie & I will go from Concord to W R If possible. Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

January 10, 1869

Text

Vassar College. Jan. 10. 1869. My darling mother, How much I have wanted to see you today and we have been talking over the time that must elapse before the 10th of June and I am sure that you will get tired of hearing my raving about coming home. I feel so provoked about the miserable letter I wrote Nell yesterday, but as I heard the omnibus bell ring before I had half finished it and wanted to send it last night it had to be finished before I had written half that I intended to. I have had... Show moreVassar College. Jan. 10. 1869. My darling mother, How much I have wanted to see you today and we have been talking over the time that must elapse before the 10th of June and I am sure that you will get tired of hearing my raving about coming home. I feel so provoked about the miserable letter I wrote Nell yesterday, but as I heard the omnibus bell ring before I had half finished it and wanted to send it last night it had to be finished before I had written half that I intended to. I have had such nice letters this week and yours was just as nice as it could be.Monday afternoon. There was a lecture last night by a tract distributer and general agent from Paris and I did not have much of a chance to write you after that especially as Belle Hatt was here till the warning bell rang. I didn't get around in my letter to Nell the other day to tell her how unpretty she would find her apron if It ever reached her. I made it Monday the day Charlie left and he went at two o'clock, so, as I was so much hurried, of course I could not do it a bit nicely and when I held it up to myself I thought the shape was not very good. I sent the things for the pockets so that she could put them on if she thought she should prefer them. RlUa and I couldn't seem to find any good place for them.The letter that Harry sent me the other day was very nice and I shall try to answer it In a week or two. I am afraid that I shall not be able to write very many or very long letters, but I am determined to write to my Lisbon friends to the exclusion of all others if necessary because I want to hear from them more. I am getting on nicely in my studies so far in the New Year and I am so much interested in my music. It costs a lot but I am gaining a great deal by it and if I had not taken this year I might as well have given it up for good. We are having a sort of January thaw today but as we have gymnastics tonight all our class get out of walking on such a "sloppey day" (See diary of Edwin M. Foster) Harry & Nellwould appreciate this I think if they remember the contents of that little book as well as I do. I told Mr. Morrill about it to his infinite amusement. There! such a good and jolly time as I had with them you never heard of. I should always feel free to go there. They want Harry to come on for me next June and then we are both to go there from here for a day or two, and I hope he will not give up the idea of coming. I don't see why he can't come depending on his own resources. I want to write a great deal more but have no more time today. I shall expect a nice letter from you this week and you must intercede with Nell for me. Remember every one with n great deal of love. Your own Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, >70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

March 14, 1869

Text

Vassar College March 14, 1869 Dear little mamma, Three letters came yesterday from home, one from you, one from father and one from Gracie. Gracie is getting to write quite a "running hand" as Annie Dody E Ek forsees it and her letter yesterday was very charming. Annie's mother called for her yesterday with 2 of her friends. It is very nice on two accounts to her in Poughkeepsie, but I didn't believe I should be so well cultured if you were there and I could. I see you... Show moreVassar College March 14, 1869 Dear little mamma, Three letters came yesterday from home, one from you, one from father and one from Gracie. Gracie is getting to write quite a "running hand" as Annie Dody E Ek forsees it and her letter yesterday was very charming. Annie's mother called for her yesterday with 2 of her friends. It is very nice on two accounts to her in Poughkeepsie, but I didn't believe I should be so well cultured if you were there and I could. I see you often than two or three weeks. She is a witch, but very smart indeed, tortured [Nadine] almost to death and says it's lucky for me that I am so dignified or she should assail me. Doesn't the idea of my being dignified strike you as some-what absurd? I am so impatient for father to come. Tell him to come and spend the sabbath by all means. He could get to Albany at eleven o' clock the first day, and come here as soon as he chose the next morning as there are trains every two hours. Of course he would come out here as soon as possible and go all around there. I could go with him to Po'keepsie and stay till Monday morning. I should want to have him see Springtide. Mr. Vassar's come seat and several other beautiful places around the city, and we should have plenty of time to see a good many places. Lest I should forget to tell him at what hotel to stop if he should want to go there before coming to the college I will say now that it is the Morgan House. A great many parents come and spend the sabbath in there with the girls. I have just been to see my corridor teacher. Miss Braislin and I had a very nice time. She is one of the very best here and that is saying a great deal. After silent June May Morris and I are going to call for Prof. and Mrs. Backus. Of course when father passes through New York he will go see the Morrills. I know they would be very glad to see him and he would like all of them that he has not seen! I am very much obliged to you for sending me uncle Eleper's and aunt Esther's photographs. Hers is good and you say that his is miserable. I hope he will come here really. Shouldn't you feel very badly to leave Lisbon for good? It seems to me that it would be like taking away a part of our lives. It is now nearly half past nine and I must write a little bit of a letter to Saidee yet, so I can't say much more to you this time. Did you forget to send the ? I asked for, or don't you think I had better indulge in the extravagance? I had a delightful time at Prof. Backus' and shall go again before long. May Morris is a beautiful girl and one of my dearest friends. She says alright - "I know your mother must be a lovely mom and give my love to her for her daughter's sake " - so here it is. I shall expect my usual letter from you this week. Your loving Mary (Parker) Woodworth '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

April 19, 1868

Text

Vassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. April 19. 1868. My dear Mother, It has been so long since I have written to you that I feel under a good deal of restraint as I would with a stranger. I think you cannot complain of negligence. I was so glad to get your letter yesterday and especially that you were willing to have me take riding lessons. I was so surprised for I thought it would be too expensive. I am really anxious to be as economical as possible and considering all things, do not think I am... Show moreVassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. April 19. 1868. My dear Mother, It has been so long since I have written to you that I feel under a good deal of restraint as I would with a stranger. I think you cannot complain of negligence. I was so glad to get your letter yesterday and especially that you were willing to have me take riding lessons. I was so surprised for I thought it would be too expensive. I am really anxious to be as economical as possible and considering all things, do not think I am extravagant. I shall depend upon my friends for the necessary outfit. Hattie Harrington and Saidee have both offered me their habits and I shall be very glad to avail myself of their offers.The horses here are perfectly trained and very spirited. I shall think I have done pretty well if I get so that I can apanage a horse well before I go home. I shall hope for a letter from you Wednesday telling me what I requested in the note I sent you yesterday by Emily. Hattie Palmer returned yesterday from her vacation and I was so glad to see her. She is one of the finest girls I ever saw. Her name is so much like mine that we are seated together in all our classes and are together nearly all the time any way- She is the most like Flora of any girl I ever saw. She brought some beautiful oleander blossoms from home. When I was in town the other day I ordered some hot house flowers for for my hair and dress Founder's Day and although I shall have no new trumpery towear, yet with beautiful flowers and fresh white gloves I shall be very passable, shall I not? I anticipate much enjoyment at Parepa's concert Tuesday. There are fifty seats reserved for us and just so many can go from the college. Saidee heard of it and gave in our names in season to secure places, but she thinks she cannot go because she must take all her money to pay her dressmaker's bills in New York. Her father sent her seventy dolls, only three weeks ago and she of course don't feel like asking him for any more at present. I am so sorry she can't go, but I don't feel as if I ought to urge her when she has such a reason for not going. The tickets with reserved seats are $1.00 and it will probably be about fifty cts. to and from. I thought it too good an opportunity to lose and it may be the last one I shall ever have. I think you would have advised it if I could have asked you. Next Saturday night Anna Dickinson lectures at the college here. I feel as if all the good things were coming together. I am having such advantages as I never used to dream of. I shall never half repay you and my kindest of fathers for all you have done for me I am afraid. Harry Hutchins has made a good choice in going to Michigan University. There are so many Michigan girls here that I hear much of it. I am really glad he is there. Monday Morn. We have begun already to press flowers and have just been changing the papers in the press. We have four specimens in press now - ninety-six more to get. If you ever find any wild flowers in your meanderings and can press themfor me I should be most happy to get them. There may be some at home that we do not find here. We have some of the loveliest spring violets called Hepaticas in press. I enjoy doing it ever so much. I think it so funny that you have such an idea of my strength giving out. I suppose you judge by last year which is very foolish in you, little Mother. You know I had a bad cough then that took my strength away whereas I have had no colds this winter except that one when I was at home. I am very much better this year than I was last and really think I never had so good health in my life. I think the climate and these regulations agree with me. I had thought that the picture I sent you looked as if I lacked spirit I would not have sent it, but now the girls say it does not look so animated as I do. No one thinks itlooks nearly so well as I do but I think it flatters me as all my pictures do. They want to have me send home for some picture I have had taken before I came so I wish you would send me in your next that one you have with braided hair. I promise that you shall have it again. You ask how soon I would like my box. Just when you can get it reedy conveniently and without hurrying - not before. It would be pleasant as you say if I could have it on my birthday but after all it would be in reality no better so don't regret it a moment that It cannot be sent. Do you think after the measure I sent you that it will be necessary to have a garibaldi waist pattern sent? It will not make much difference how It fits when so little of it is to show. I cannot get a sample of trimmingfor I can't go to Poughkeepsie to shop any till time to get my summer hat. but I will trust to Mrs. Brown's taste in the matter. She can get ball trimming or any other kind that she thinks best. I do not care for anything very elaborate. Be sure not to make any thing if you cannot Just as well. I shall be so glad to get something from home. Cin Rushmore sent me some real nice cake last night that she brought back. I felt quite honored as she is rather the lion of the college. Here is Just room to sign my name and I take the chance before any other thoughts come. Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

April 26, 1868

Text

Vassar College. April 26. 1868. My dear Mother It seems to me that I have ever so much to write you today although I wrote you quite a letter yesterday. Saidee has just come in and wants to have me go to walk with her, so I guess I will. Have returned from my walk and feel much better for It. The air is so clear and the sunlight invigorating. We staid out nearly an hour, went down by the brook and around the loveliest paths in the grounds. I am so glad Harry had the picture of Saidee copied... Show moreVassar College. April 26. 1868. My dear Mother It seems to me that I have ever so much to write you today although I wrote you quite a letter yesterday. Saidee has just come in and wants to have me go to walk with her, so I guess I will. Have returned from my walk and feel much better for It. The air is so clear and the sunlight invigorating. We staid out nearly an hour, went down by the brook and around the loveliest paths in the grounds. I am so glad Harry had the picture of Saidee copied for I wanted one of that kind very much. She will get another one taken if possible for me and I have not told her that you have it. She is very changeable in her looks, sometimes she is positively handsome and at others not st all so. Her white alpaca is particularly becoming to her. When you get this letter she will probably be riding horseback before Mr. Vassar's carriage, as she is one of the young ladies who are to escort him here Founder's Day. I hope we shall have a good time and especially that the Cantata will pass off well. We have had so much rehearsing to do that we are about tired out. Yesterday I did not attend one for I did not feel well enough, and I am glad of it for I feel very well today, and just because I rested so much yesterday. Anna Dickinson came about threeo'clock yesterday - she and Miss Avery went immediately to the Observatory to see Miss Mitchell and they had tea taken over there from the college. I wish I could tell you about her lecture but I can't say one word. I love, honor, and admire Anna Dickinson from this time henceforth and forever. "Them's my sentiments." Savoir We are all so full of admiration and ecstacy that we can't say anything at all but sit and look at each other. "Silence louder than words" you know. She is a splendid looking woman and was dressed in very good taste. Heavy black silk - lace collar and under- sleeves. Her hands are elegant and she gestures very gracefully. Several girls were invited over to Miss Mitchell's after the lecture and staid an hour & half. Miss Dickinson left at twelve o'clock for New York. She was very much pleased with what she saw of the surroundings here but could not stay to see very much. She is going to be here at Commencement. Won't that be nice? The Philalethean Society have decided to have Henry Ward Beecher or Dr. Storrs deliver an address the night before commencement. Last Tuesday night I went to hear Parepa. She sings gloriously. I was above earth for two hours if I ever was. She is such a large, fine looking woman, and does not effect a stage smile at all. I enjoyed looking at her almost as much as hearing her. Prof. Farrar says that is always a great part of the charm about her and it is true. Carl Rosa played three violin solos which very very beautiful and I enjoyed them exceedingly in spite of the fact that he looks like Benuci Morre and reminds me of him every way. He & Parepa did not appear together as you may well imagine. I do not think the contrast would appear at all favorable to him. Friday night the Mendelssohn Club gave a concert with Addie Ryan as soloist. I was glad when the time came that I had not made arrangements to go, for with Saturday's work before me I felt that I had better go to bed. There were seventeen carriages containing eighty five girls and they say it was splendid. Some liked Miss Ryan very much, while others did not. Just think of my seeing the two women Parepa and Anna Dickinson the same week, whom I have so long wanted to see. After church. Have listened to quite an interesting and lengthy sermon by Rev. Mr. Wines - a Baptist minister from the city. He reminded me very much of Mr. Gray- Sarah's father. Dr. Raymond is ill I understand probably suffering from one of his frequent attacks. He is a splendid man and I like him better and better. One thing I must not forget to write about and that is - if it will be too much trouble for you to get fringe for my dress you can take some kind of narrow gimp for heading and a fold of bias silk of the same color. I am not at all particular which. I shall have a hat to match the suit. If you can I would like to have you send me a bit of the goods when it comes. Did you say that you and Sue were going to have a ponjee dress too? I hope so.When I get home I want to read Woman's Wrongs - Gail Hamilton's new book - to you. I think it is just as nice as it can be and will give you a good idea of what Anna Dickinson's lecture was. It was such nice work to draw our maps but I was very glad indeed when mine was finished. Monday Morning. I took another ride at eight o'clock this morning. Baron Von Seldeneck has said that no lady should ride out in the grounds till she had taken at least three lessons in the ring under his charge, but this is my second lesson, and I rode before with Madame. He ordered a horse for me that he don't often give to new ones and took me out with two other girls who have ridden ever so much. The horse is rather hard to ride, but was very manageable and I got along very nicely- Saidee says it was a great thing for Baron to let me ride out so soon. One of the teachers asked him to let her go last week and he would not. I am very much interested in it and think it will do me so much good. I waatrto give you one more direction about my dress, and that is, to make the pelisse longer than Saidee's - not very much but longer. I believe I have nothing more to write this morning. Write me just as much as you can without hurting yourself. I do like to get them so much. Have enjoyed life within the last two weeks because you have written so frequently. Tell Hal I will write him after the excite- ment of Founder's Day is past. Mary- Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

May 29, 1868

Text

Vassar College. May 29. 1868. My dearest Mother, I have just read your letter and am so sorry I have not written again so that you could get it tomorrow after reading that you wanted very much to hear from me again. You will get this Monday, and let all your anxiety be immediately relieved for I am free from "pest and pain" now. This week I have been just as busy as I could be every moment, therefore it has been impossible for me to write any letters at all. How funny it is that Em... Show moreVassar College. May 29. 1868. My dearest Mother, I have just read your letter and am so sorry I have not written again so that you could get it tomorrow after reading that you wanted very much to hear from me again. You will get this Monday, and let all your anxiety be immediately relieved for I am free from "pest and pain" now. This week I have been just as busy as I could be every moment, therefore it has been impossible for me to write any letters at all. How funny it is that Em should say I had not written to her for so long when I have been waiting for her to write and c* cus her -for neglecting me on the ground of her not feeling well enough* Probab-ly my fetter to her or hers to me has failed to reach its des-ti nation. I wrote Seth qu\ta a lorjg letter test, Saturday, I think, to make up for not writing sooner but it did not have time to reach Boston before he left. Nell had written me that Corlista was in a very critical condition so I was not so much shocked to get the news of her death yesterday from Charlie Cummings How very, very sad it is 2 I feel so badly for I liked her very much. She was a splendid girl and it seems so awful that she should die. We did not think when we were down at Mr. S's after Sophia died and saw Corlista doing so much* that she would so soon follow her. I remember of her saying to me then "how much better I could have been spared" Seth is left more and more alone. It seems to be the worst thing for one of his nature, but Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 15, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Nov. 15. 1868. My dearest mother. Your letters from me will come thick and fast after this I fancy, but may not always be long. I do hope that my letter sent the 10th has reached you before this. You need never expect a letter from me on Tuesday night for I could not send one so that it would reach you then. If I send one from here at 5 PM. Saturday it will reach you Monday but as we don't have any mail from here Sunday letters sent Monday are the the first and these... Show moreVassar College. Nov. 15. 1868. My dearest mother. Your letters from me will come thick and fast after this I fancy, but may not always be long. I do hope that my letter sent the 10th has reached you before this. You need never expect a letter from me on Tuesday night for I could not send one so that it would reach you then. If I send one from here at 5 PM. Saturday it will reach you Monday but as we don't have any mail from here Sunday letters sent Monday are the the first and these cannot reach you till Wednesday, so you see there is no chance for Tuesday at all. We had an election of officersin our class last night. In the absence of the secretary I was appointed pro. tem. and in the course of the election was one of the three nominated for Sibyl or Prophetess. It was rather unpleasant to be up in front and wait for the announcement, but much to my surprise it resulted in my election: I think one of the others is better fitted for it by all means and she ought to have been elected. They were elected, however, for only six months and I shall undoubtedly be relieved at the end of that time. There is nothing to do till Class Day '70 so the labor will not be arduous. I expect every moment to hear the chapel bell ring and we shall undoubtedly have the pleasure of listening to a sermon of an hour or more in length. There it goes!I have made three very dear friends since coming back. One is from Appleton, Wisconsin. Her name is Alice Conkey and I do so love and admire her exceedingly. I will send you a photograph of her which does not do her justice but will give you an idea of her. Please send it back to me in your next letter without fail. If you have an opportunity to show it to any of my friends I would like to have you do so. I have been feeling a little blue tonight and still feel a little too strongly inclined that way, but as I have no reason for it shall probably recover soon. I would give millions if I had the disposal of them to be with you all tonight- I want to see you most of all things and can hardly wait for the time to come.I got considerably excited over my essay yesterday and as a penalty have suffered considerable today from a nervous headache. However, I can afford to have severe headaches when I have them at all for it is so seldom. I didn't sleep very well and that aggravated it of course, but a good sound sleep tonight will undoubtedly cause me to be as bright as possible tomorrow. Yesterday was one of my roommates* birthday. She reef* a beautiful glove box with six prs. of kid gloves, a h'd'k'f. box with a dozen nice hem-stitched handkerchiefs, a set of solid gold jewelry and an elegant blue enameled gold watch, besides nets, a scarf and some confectionary - Dont you think she was highly favored ? Her father has been a widower since she was two years old - sixteen years - and she is his only child. He writes her the very nicest letters you ever read- They sound like a woman's and he is as good as many fathers and mothers put together. You haven't mentioned Harry or Gracie to me in ever so long. Dear children. I would give so much to see them. Monday - My head is entirely well today and I am in my usual good health and spirits. I recd a nice long letter from father this noon and now I know that you received my letter Friday night. He seemed anxious for me to not hesitate to ask for money if I wish it. I have thirty dollars nowbut I wanted to make that last through my visit to N.Y. and it would have done so if it had not been for this performance. As it is I may need some more before going down. He writes that Harry and Gracie are getting along finely which rejoices me more than any thing else could. I shall see great improvement when I see them next summer, I expect. Nothing would be so nice as to have Mr. Patterson lecture here, but as the trustees and not the students engage the lectures I could have no influence of course. I think I shall get along pretty well on my essay as we have a recess of four days at Thanksgiving and a great deal can be accomplished in that time- Several of the teachers seem to take the greatest interest in my success and do all they can to help me* Tell Nell to write me a long letter right away for I am very impatient & hear from her. I will send you the things for the handkerchief and tell you how to make it. You will probably get it Monday Nov. 23d. Write me a nice, long letter this week and be sure not to over-work yourself as father says you are inclined to dc as usual. Very lovingly Mary- Mary (Parker) Woodworth, »70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

February 23, 1868

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Vassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. February 23. 1868 My dear Mother: I am Impatiently waiting for the letter that I am almost sure to have from you tomorrow morning. I have to practice gymnastics from eight o'clock so shall not be able to get it for an hour nearly, just before I have to go to my first recitation. The past week has been quite a nice pleasant one. Monday morning your letter came and that was a good beginning for the week. My school duties are all over in the forenoon you... Show moreVassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. February 23. 1868 My dear Mother: I am Impatiently waiting for the letter that I am almost sure to have from you tomorrow morning. I have to practice gymnastics from eight o'clock so shall not be able to get it for an hour nearly, just before I have to go to my first recitation. The past week has been quite a nice pleasant one. Monday morning your letter came and that was a good beginning for the week. My school duties are all over in the forenoon you know and the time seems to pass very quickly till then. Tuesday I had letters from Charlie, Mr. Ide and Maggie. Charlie's contained an account of his visit to Ellen and I judge that she never stood higher inhis estimation than now. If every one knew as well as I do - how little doubt there would be in any one's mind but what she is the one "altogether lovely" to him. I suppose before this Sue or someone may have told you about Mr. Ayres1 introducing him to a minister as "brother Cummings" by mistake. Mr. Ide writes that Jennie and Miss Carpenter will both teach in the academy this spring. Isn't that nice for Jennie? He says Horace and Maggie constitute quite a dignified family also that he has taken dinner there once or twice. I am glad Maggie pleases Horace's family so well. She wrote me about her household affairs somewhat and says she is very busy indeed. She said nothing about her mother's feelings now, but I think she must be in better condition than at the time of the wedding.Em wrote me a few words the day uncle Kendall was buried and said our house had been thronged with Parkers. It hardly seems possible that uncle Kendall is really gone and that we shall never see him around the village any more. I felt very badly indeed at the news and wished so much that I could have been at home to the funeral. He had a great many things about him to make friends if he was so sharp sometimes. How does Aunt Julia seem to get along? It always seems sad for a man to die and leave his wife alone in old age, but she has children and grand-children to cheer her up. Em writes that Nell came last Tuesday, so I know that she is there. I hope you will be able to keep her as long as you want to but am doubtful on that score, for she has so many arrangements in that for head ofhers. We have had no school duties since Thursday for would be Dr. Raymond thought it was not be fair if we could not have a holiday because Washington's birth-day came on Saturday. I was very glad for it I assure you and wish we could have another before long. We shall have one or two before Founder's Day the 29th of April. I suppose there will be one or two Fast days. I shall be nine-teen ten weeks from today. Just think of it - eighteen only ten weeks more, and in a year shall be out think of it at all. I have another my plaid dress is about my only wear my gingham. *** of my teens forever. I don't like to pair of bands to send this time and stand by. I shall be glad when I can Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

May 7, 1868

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Vassar College. May 7. 1868. My darling brother, I wrote you so short and mean a letter last week that I feel it my duty to patch it up, and the effect it must have had on you, by writing another just such a one, I fear. Your letters were very nice ones that I received two or three weeks ago. They certainly deserved a long and good one in reply, but I was so placid that I could not do what I wished then. I want to speak of two or three little things that I noticed, which you will need to... Show moreVassar College. May 7. 1868. My darling brother, I wrote you so short and mean a letter last week that I feel it my duty to patch it up, and the effect it must have had on you, by writing another just such a one, I fear. Your letters were very nice ones that I received two or three weeks ago. They certainly deserved a long and good one in reply, but I was so placid that I could not do what I wished then. I want to speak of two or three little things that I noticed, which you will need to correct, but do not be discouraged for you write very correctly and improve very fast. When you have written a sentence and would make alittle pause if you were speaking the same, make a pause and commence the next sentence with a capital always. For instance you wrote "I am about sick of Lisbon in what part of Michigan does Saidee live?11 Do you not see that here are two separate thoughts and that there should be a period after Lisbon? Then of course the next word in should have a capital letter. When you have said a complete thing, stop and commence anew on the next. One word you spelled, virtueous - there you have three vowels together which we seldom see. You should have left out the e. I am glad to see that you are forming a habit of spelling rightly. Let that be the all important point, but be careful also to avoid long sentences. Until you study Rhetoric you will have to go by your natural sensein punctuating, especially with commas. I am a poor example at best, but my letters may be of a little benefit to you. Many things which I would like to write I dare not because I am afraid you might possibly leave this within the reach of others. In a little less than seven weeks, however, we will talk them all over, which will be much better. I think from what you and mother write about the Woodworths, that I shall like them very much. I remember something about both of them, but not much. It is pleasant to have the store in such hands and I dare say there will be an improvement in the order of the store. You know young men are more particular about small points than older ones. Harry, please select me some paper of this size and envelopes tomatch, also the square size if you can find it, and send in my box. The morning it is sent I would like to have someone send me a letter saying that It has been sent, so to know when to expect it. I shall be so glad to see something from home. Tell mother not to hurry about sending it, for if the weather continues as rainy as now I shall not suffer for want of anything but winter clothes and those I have in abundance. I wish you would write me very soon and a long letter. I like to get them better than you can know, for you don't know how much I love I have for my oldest brother. Your loving sister Mary- Mary (Parker) Woodworth, *70Tell Mother if she has any materials for making an old woman's cap I wish she would send them to me. I have got to have one in a little while. Don't forget the paper and tell the others to remember the skeleton and shoes- Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

January 25, 1869

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Vassar Monday. Jan. 25. 1869. Dear Mother* I have five minutes more or less to write a few words to you, but I want to ask you if I am to infer from your last letter that you had just as soon have me study harder and practice less or vice-versa. In my next note to the Faculty I shall want to say whether you wish me to take two studies or three and you must let me know your wishes as soon as possible. I prefer it If I can endure it to go along with three studies, but hate to commence and then... Show moreVassar Monday. Jan. 25. 1869. Dear Mother* I have five minutes more or less to write a few words to you, but I want to ask you if I am to infer from your last letter that you had just as soon have me study harder and practice less or vice-versa. In my next note to the Faculty I shall want to say whether you wish me to take two studies or three and you must let me know your wishes as soon as possible. I prefer it If I can endure it to go along with three studies, but hate to commence and then be obliged to give up half way.We got out of Latin unusually early today so that I can write till the next period bell rings when I must go to practice. I derive my principal pleasure here from practicing and I have such nice music to play. You speak of my exercizing one set of muscles to rest another - Don't you know that that Is the great physical law of our being ? But there is not a little brain-work in reading & playing the Is music I am now having. It^of a a decidedly higher order than what I have had. I intended to write to grandma yesterday but the day slipped away without my doing so.I wrote you so much on Saturday that I have fortunately left nothing to say in this letter except that I love you all and pray for your happiness & prosperity. Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, »70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

September 27, 1868

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Vassar College. Sept. 27. 1868. My dear Mother I received your letter yesterday and was very glad to hear from home I assure you. Isn't it very funny that I am so happy and contented with never a homesick feeling. I had all my "blue spells" before I left home and on my way here. I am so very glad that it is this way when I expected to spend the principal part of the first week or two in vain regrets that I left home. I am more pleasantly situated by a great deal than last year... Show moreVassar College. Sept. 27. 1868. My dear Mother I received your letter yesterday and was very glad to hear from home I assure you. Isn't it very funny that I am so happy and contented with never a homesick feeling. I had all my "blue spells" before I left home and on my way here. I am so very glad that it is this way when I expected to spend the principal part of the first week or two in vain regrets that I left home. I am more pleasantly situated by a great deal than last year even if I do not have Saidee here to talk to. My room is quite large. I have in it a bed, chair, bureau, washstand, wardrobe and my little trunk with a shawl on it. Harrys picture hangs over my bed and the one you sent me last year is just opposite over the wash stand. Under the gas burner is a brackett with my silver vase with the red wax rose that Gracie gave me and on each side of it those two little china ones that I brought from home, then on each side of the burner are Saidee's and Ellen Ayers' pictures in those little frames. I can keep it in perfect order with little trouble this year with no one but myself to look out for. I shall never have a roommate again here I am pretty sure. My studies are all settled now. I am in Latin Prose Composition, Greek and Logic. I could not continue Germanand be in the classical course so it had to go, but I do not intend to give it up altogether by any means. Two of my parlor mates study it and I am not likely to hear the last of it this year. After we have studied Latin Prose awhile we are to take Tacitus* Histories. They have recited since Monday in Greek so I had a good deal to make up, but I like it exceedingly and have now made up all but two lessons which I can do before reciting again. I told Prof. Backus how I was situated and he said I must not wear myself out the first thing with study and he would excuse me from reciting in Logic for three or four days if I would like to have him. I told him that I hoped it would not be necessary but if it was I would tell him.Last Friday evening our society elected new officers the election result of which was as follows. President Kate Sill - a splendid A. senior and owes her election to Hattie P. and myself for we went around and asked the girls to vote for her. Vice President Hattie Palmer, Secretary Belle Hatt, Treasurer Lizzie Merrell, 1st Critic Mary A. Parker your humble daughter, 2d Miss Ladd. You will understand just how much I shall dislike this office for it is one of the most difficult ones in college. A critic has to be severe often if just and no one enjoys having his or her foibles made more public than is necessary- The most I can do is to exercise the kindest spirit that I can and make my criticisms as unostentatiously as possible. In this respect I hope to improve on the critic of last year.We are obliged to write a report every other week alternately and read it the first thing in the next meeting. Well I am not going to worry about it any mor let what will happen. I was very sorry to learn by your letter that Mrs. Kilburn was at home that day and that I missed seeing her. I rang twice quite hard and thought of course no one could be in the house. I went to the city yesterday with Miss Mitchell and she didn't go around with me at all. I didn't see her from the time I left the 'bus till I got in to come home. You will see I had a splendid chance to buy all sorts of contraband articles. I bought some grapes but no confectionary.I think every thing of Miss Mitchell. She is just as good as she can be, so very smart and yet perfectly simple in her manners. I went over to the observatory the day after I got here and recd a very warm welcome from Mr. Mitchell, a very cordial one from Miss Maria. He said he had inquired ever since college began of any one that might know when I was expected. I staid an hour or more and shall go again in a day or two. I went to see Miss Powell, Usher and Fessenden last Thursday, and made Miss Goodwin quite a long visit on Friday so you see that I have visited the teachers quite extensively. Miss Goodwin is perfectly lovely in looks and character. I was in her class in Rhetoric last year and she says she feels as if I belonged to her.She is the mutual one who Mr. Mitchell says constitutes the third party of ourAadmiration society. How does Harry get on with his arithmetic ? I shall be interested in his progress more than in my own I fear. I expect that he and Nell will get on wonderfully well. I thought he took hold of fractions in good earnest and very intelligently although he said he found it difficult to confine his thoughts to what he was doing. He has too fine mind to neglect. I must not write more now. I always want to be remembered with much love to my friends. Darling little Emily! What would I not give to see her today? Be sure to write me all that you can about her. Sue said she would too. Lovingly Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

September 22, 1868

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Massasoit House. Springfield, Sept. 22, '68 My dear Mother I said I would write you from here and am glad of something to do, contrary to my usual condition. I have little to write beyond the fact of my being here alive and well. I feel much better since I got here than I did in the cars. My stomach felt very unsettled nearly all day and I thought it would take little to cause vomiting, but I shall not eat anything tonight and in the morning shall feel much better for it. I rode in the... Show moreMassasoit House. Springfield, Sept. 22, '68 My dear Mother I said I would write you from here and am glad of something to do, contrary to my usual condition. I have little to write beyond the fact of my being here alive and well. I feel much better since I got here than I did in the cars. My stomach felt very unsettled nearly all day and I thought it would take little to cause vomiting, but I shall not eat anything tonight and in the morning shall feel much better for it. I rode in the little saloon from W .R.Junction on a sofa and had quite a nice opportunity to rest. There were several pleasant people in there, among whom were a gentleman and his wife just from Charleston. After awhile they began to talk of some of the people and I asked if they knew uncle Edwin. They said they did and all of Aunt Sarah's people. Ellen Clarke was married last week to a man by the name of Whipple. We were a little late tonight but I believe in season to connect with the N.Y. and Western trains. I have a room somewhat smaller than I have had before when there have been two of us, but it is just as pretty as can be, very handsomely furnished with black walnut fcc. I wish some of my Lisbon friends were with me and I should have nothing lacking. I hope you went to Littleton today and enjoyed yourself very much. Tell any one who inquires for me how I have got along and say good bye to A1 W. for me. I certainly expected to see him again- Ed gave me carte blanche for funds when I left. Tou may expect another letter Sat. night. That will be the first chance I shall have to write. Much love to all.Your loving daughter, Mary- Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

October 27, 1868

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Vassar College. Oct. 27. 1868. My dearest mother, Fearing that some of the New York papers would get into your hands among the greater variety of newspapers afloat during the campaign, I thought it best to write you about the sickness in the college before you could see any exaggerated account in the papers. I have not thought it necessary to write you anything about it before, but yesterday I learned that in several N.Y. papers it was stated that more than half the young ladies had typhoid... Show moreVassar College. Oct. 27. 1868. My dearest mother, Fearing that some of the New York papers would get into your hands among the greater variety of newspapers afloat during the campaign, I thought it best to write you about the sickness in the college before you could see any exaggerated account in the papers. I have not thought it necessary to write you anything about it before, but yesterday I learned that in several N.Y. papers it was stated that more than half the young ladies had typhoid feverat Vassar College, and all of us who have not mentioned it in our letters think that we ought to do so now. It is true that there never was nearly so much sickness here before and that seems to be true in all parts of the country about here. Wednesday morn. Such a beautiful, sunshiny day as we are blest with is enough to frighten away sickness and almost the very king of horrors. Well to continue my acct.; about two weeks ago the girls began to be sick of colds and gradually feverish symptoms were noticed. Things gradually matured till there were a good many cases of quite severe illness. The Infirmary was full some time ago and a part of the south 4th. corridor has been taken for the sick ones. There has been very little excitement so far, but a good many of the girls have been telegraphed to come home at once- Hattie Harrington has just bidden us good bye, having just reed one and she leaves in the 2 o'clock train. I am very sorry that such alarming reports should have got circulated for it will cause much needless alarm. Miss Lyman is willing to have the girls go because no one can tell what the end will be and, if they or their parents will be uneasy, she thinks they had better relieve themselves at once. There is only one case that is very dangerous. Miss Skeel - one of the seniors - was thought to be dying yesterday at 2 6*clock; but she is not quite so low now. The sickness is kept entirely away from us and we are not exposed to the least contagion if indeed there could be any in typhoid fever.They exercise great precaution and we all have the best oversight possible. Of course I take the best care of myself and do not feel any more uneasy than I should at home. Yesterday I had a very hard headache and some fever, but was invited to ride for an hour in an easy pony carriage and at 9 o'clock bathed my head in cold water - took a bath, and am feeling bright and well today. One of my classmates who was not well all summer came back on condition that she should be allowed to go home when she felt unable to stay. She went two weeks ago and now has congestion of the brain in Its worst form. Till yesterday they had no hope whatever of her recovery, but she really is more comfortable now and we hope she will live-I hear good reports from the sick this morning and a few days of this kind of weather will be salutary in their effects. A great many letters have been recd from anxious friends, and those who are very sick have their mothers here. Do not worry at all about me. If I am sick Miss Lyman will write you immediately and the truth too, but you are not of the anxious sort. I am glad to know and I don't expect to hear that you are much alarmed- Miss Lyman invited Hattie Palmer and me to spend the hour before tea yesterday in her parlor. It is a beautiful room and she said it might seem more cheerful to us at such a gloomy time. Wasn't it kind?I reed, a letter from Em last Saturday and shall write in the course of four or five weeks, just as soon as she answered mine. Nell has not written yet. I suppose in the interval before Christmas I shall probably hear from her, probably not at present however. My friends all have more time to write than I do and I shall not do anymore of It than they do- I must not spend any more of my time in writing now, but I want to tell you of a pretty sacque that you might make for Oracle if you had time aad patience. Make it of scarlet flannel and dot it all over with small chalk beads, like this • • • • • • • They are lovely both for young ladies Ik children, but I don't want one. Your ever loving Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, »70Nelle's and you letter came this morn. Yes I will answer Sunday and her when the proper time comes. I enjoyed the letter ever much. Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

April 25, 1868

Text

Vassar College* Saturday Apr. 25. 1868 Dearest Mother: I have just received your letter and the elegant collars contained. They came very opportunely for I am going to take the character of Mrs. Nickleby In our next class meeting and it is just what I want. I was going to write to you to send me any old fashioned you might have in my box, as we are to have a fancy dress entertainment in June. I took my first riding lesson yesterday. Saidee came over to see me ride and she says I did nicely... Show moreVassar College* Saturday Apr. 25. 1868 Dearest Mother: I have just received your letter and the elegant collars contained. They came very opportunely for I am going to take the character of Mrs. Nickleby In our next class meeting and it is just what I want. I was going to write to you to send me any old fashioned you might have in my box, as we are to have a fancy dress entertainment in June. I took my first riding lesson yesterday. Saidee came over to see me ride and she says I did nicely and shall make a splendid rider. I hope so certainly. I am very lame today in consequence, but shall get all over that in a day or two as they all do. This morning, at nine o'clock I started for the fifth floor whereare drawing topographical maps of the college grounds and worked steadily for three hours. I was so glad when I had made the last mark although I felt very tired. The girls made me stay from dinner and go to bed, but I am up now for I wanted to write you while they were at dinner. Shall get up and dress before tea for I want to hear Anna Dickinson lecture tonight. Just think of it, no trigonometry at all next week - for only two of us have our maps done and Miss Braislin allows another week. I can rest all I want to after Founder's Day next Wed. I would like my ponjee dress very much if you think it best to make it. The skirt is to be 37 by 38 inches. You need not make any waist at all only the pelisse. This consists of a plain sacque very loose and coming below the waist nearly three quarters of a yd. The sacque has a seam under the arm but no where else. The back is to be gathered up for about six or seven inches and fastened to a belt on the inside which I pin around me underneath. Sleeves plain coat, and front perfectly loose buttoning with quite large match buttons clear to the bottom. I checked the picture you have of Saidee will assist you. The sash consists of a belt of the same and two ends made entirely separate which are attached in this manner The bottom of the endsI are to be trimmed with fringe if the dress is and the sides with the narrow heading. Now you can I do as you think best about making the dress at all. W ill it not be too much work? There will be time enough for a waist after I come home if I want one at all Saidee hasn't any. If I have a waist shall have it garibaldi and open behind by all means. I do not think I shall need the lace shawl for I have a sacque you know. I am glad you and Sue are going to have one. Did you send for a black Serige as I told you to ? This will reach you Monday and I shall write you tomorrow about the lecture, concerts fee. If you make me a muslin waist have it open behind. I must not write more now. Hope I have written sufficiently explicitly. Your loving Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 27, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Nov. 27. 1868. My darling Mother, I have been to town on my shopping expedition today and purchased the linen and edging for my handkerchief. I found some already made of real Valenciennes lace for $5.00 but finding that I could buy the materials and get much broader lace for $5.75 concluded to do so. It seems quite a sum for simple country people like us, but it will last a long time and father directed me to get what was needed. I bought some lovely white kid slippers for $3... Show moreVassar College. Nov. 27. 1868. My darling Mother, I have been to town on my shopping expedition today and purchased the linen and edging for my handkerchief. I found some already made of real Valenciennes lace for $5.00 but finding that I could buy the materials and get much broader lace for $5.75 concluded to do so. It seems quite a sum for simple country people like us, but it will last a long time and father directed me to get what was needed. I bought some lovely white kid slippers for $3.00. They are no. 2 1/2 and the cutest little things you ever saw. Looked as small as no. 1.There is enough grass linen for two centers, one of which you shall have for making mine. If you can make it perfectly round without much trouble I should prefer it, but if it would be much easier to make it in this with the comers rounded off. Just roll a hem of the linen as narrow as possible. Then sew on the lace inserting - next the embroidery and finally the broad lace. I hope I allowed enough for the necessary fulling. I think It will make a beautiful handkerchief. I took my hair to the hair dressers and he said it would make an elegant switch, one that I couldn't net very less than $26.00 - He charges $3.00 for weaving it. My other purchases consisted of a hoop skirt with a trail for my white alpaca, a net fe hairpins. I got every for very reasonable prices and have come home quite well pleased with the result. My friend. Miss Storke, went with me and helped me more than I can tell. I have not felt well today - probably from the effects of dissipating so much yesterday was unusually oppressed by the tiresome routine of shopping, but she did every for me and was so kind that I can never thank her enough. Do you know, I believe I am getting really dyspeptic - I don't know why I should be when I am so regular in my habits. Miss Avery says that the nerves of my stomach are weak and^tired out as well as ^they are else- where and rest would make me all right, but I don't see as I am getting much better of it. Thanksgiving certainly has done me harm instead of good although I did not eat half what I usually do. I have taken the bitters that I brought from home a good many times, but they don't seem to do me much good and I don't know what to do. If I was nearer home I would fly to you very quickly and doctor myself till I had none of these bad feelings - It is half past nine o'clock now and I feel better than I have at all today before. I am troubled with headache a good deal and feel tired. This essay has been bad business for me and I feel as ifthe honor was dearly purchased. If I had not been perfectly well when it was assigned to me I should have declined to do it decidedly - After it is well over with I shall probably be glad that I did it, but I certainly feel anything but glad now. I wrote to father so that he ought to have recd it last Monday night; but Nell wrote me that you had had none from me then - Today I received a nice little letter from Gracie who wrote because you could not. I do hope to get a good letter from you before long, when it seems as if you were not writing in a disparate hurry- Saturday 1 o'clock Give me joy my bleased mother and father for my essay is done. I can hardly realise it and in addition to this I have your nice long letter and another excellent one from Em. She flattered my poor worthless self so much that my weak brain could hardly maintain its equilibrium, but asI know just how little I deserve it probably I shall not suffer from it. Yesterday as I wrote you I felt wretchedly - In the morning X was pale as could be and for an hour I thought I should faint away every moment. In the afternoon I had a very severe headache and a good deal of fever* but I slept the best last night that I have in a long time end this morning took a walk in the clear air and warm sunlight. Then I took my essay book and started for the 5th corridor where there is a large, sunny, unoccupied room and wrote two hours very rapidly and easily - You ought to have heard Hattie^ congratulations when I rushed in and told her that it was finished. I assure you they were sincere and Joyful.You will find the lace of the inserting too long by about the eight of a I think. I concluded after I got it to have that next to the linen instead of the embroidery so got a little too much. Of course you can use your own Judgment about how much to full it. Of course the edge of the embroidery is too wide now for a narrow hem. but you will know how to fix it all right. I am almost afraid to send it in a letter for fear that it will be lost, but am going to do so and sign my name in full with my address so that I can get it if it is lost. If you think best you can send it back by express only send it as early as next Saturday if possible. It takes a long time for the express bundlesto be delivered here. I received a bill of the Convention from A1 which I was very glad of. Please remember me to him and give him my thanks for it. I hope grandma will live through this fever. How does she feel about it? Is she anxious to live? You know she sometimes says she should be better off if she were dead. When you go out again give her ever so much love from me. Did father get a letter from me the first of this week? I wrote him quite a long one which ought to have got there Monday. I said in that that if I felt as tired and sick after the 11th as I did then I should start for home immediately and stay a month, If he was willing, but I feel so well today that I have no idea such a thing would be necessary.tho honor was dearly purchased. If I had not been perfectly [well] where it was assigned to me I should have desire to do it decidedly- After it is all over with I shall probably be glad that I did it, but I constantly fear any [booing] but glad now.I feel too happy for anything now that my essay Is done. Your long letter did me so much good. It was so long and cheerful. Two thousand thanks for it. It this letter reaches you safely* I shall expect a few lines saying that you have got it. Be sure to let me know by the first mail when you receive it. Much love to all Mary A. Parker. Vassar College Poughkeepsie N.Y. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

May 23, 1868

Text

V.C. Saturday P.M. May 23. 1868. My darling mother. The species of consolation that was Job's especial comforter has also been mine to a greater degree than I expected when I last wrote you. Wednesday I found a good deal of difficulty in keeping around and Thursday I kept my room. I could in not sit up and my only comfortable position was lying on my right side. This became very tiresome after a while and I began to feel sincere sympathy with any one who had been laid up with a broken... Show moreV.C. Saturday P.M. May 23. 1868. My darling mother. The species of consolation that was Job's especial comforter has also been mine to a greater degree than I expected when I last wrote you. Wednesday I found a good deal of difficulty in keeping around and Thursday I kept my room. I could in not sit up and my only comfortable position was lying on my right side. This became very tiresome after a while and I began to feel sincere sympathy with any one who had been laid up with a broken limb. I kept my bed yesterday also, but during dinner went to take a bath. I took it in very warm water and when I got out, saw it was ready to break.Thereupon I commenced the dreary operation of pressing and squeezing it. oh dear! I thought I should die almost. I was away from human ears and I took the opportunity of crying as hard as any five year old could. I felt exceedingly tired and after gathering up my things lay down on the floor for a few moments to rest. Meantime Saidee had come from dinner and seeing that I was away came to see me and I told her I would be out in a few moments Pretty soon I got up to come out and then began to feel so strangely. I could not get a breath of air and I sank onto the floor gasping for breath, oh it was such a horrible feeling. I knew I was going to faint away alone and the door was locked. Some one was outside calling to know if she couldn't come inand saying to someone else. "Some young lady is going to faint away". I had just strength to unlock the door and in half a moment went clear off. They threw up the window and took me to it then got water, camphor and so forth. In five or ten minutes I felt well enough to come back to my room and concluded to lie down for the rest of the day. The boil discharged fearfully for it was a very large one. I am glad I have not had to go through with it again since. All the afternoon I had those faint spells and my stomach was so unsettled. The air seemed so close and sultry too. While the girls were at tea I got up and went to the window where I could breath to my heart's content. It is not uncommon for the girls to faint away in the bath room and even in the tub alone.I shall never dare take one again if I am not well unless I leave the door open with someone outside to keep guard. Today I am better but have not been out. My braided nightgown and wrapper are "on duty" in consequence. I have had quantities of wild flowers brought, sad plenty of visitors. Last night I was to have a reading in our society but of course could not go and I sent my excuse to the president. Saidee also has received s box from home this week. It came yesterday and she was so delighted with it. Her commencement dress is of tarleton trimmed with rusches and puffed waist. Then she has an organdie something like Emilie Gibson's only not quite so nice, and a buff cambric trimmed with cluny lace. All her things are pretty and gotten up with same care thatmine were. We have been enthusiastic in our appreciation of the kindness and good taste of our mothers. Mother how beautifully you packed my box! I wish I could imitate you when I come to pack for home. How do you suppose I am going to get all my things into two trunks ? I have ever so many extra books and were it not for Mary Dwight's kindness I should have an extra German dictionary. You know I have an unabridged english, two Latin and a French. Then with shawls, cloaks, blanket &c. I shall have my hands and trunks full. I believe I will leave some of my old things for the Howard Mission or the Freedmen. Do you not think I had better? You know that brown poplin dress is pretty nearly useless to me and I think I have other thingsthat I shall find when I come to pack. After next week we can not have any thing charged at the office and week after next the bills will be ready to send. I have had some of the Botanical instruments charged and for medical attendance it will be something. I believe I have not had much else. In two or three weeks the railroad agents will be here with tickets and checks. Just think of the bliss of going home. I shall have been away from Lisbon six months - twice as long as ever before. I received your letter today and it is the second I have had this week. You have no need to worry you see about the extent of my correspondence. I am glad Mrs. Knights has an easy saddle. I have been wondering whether we still had the one I used to have The saddles here are elegant. Theyhave an extra pommel under the left one which is hollowed out so that the leg which is on the under side slips up under it and then the foot is just right for the stirrup. We use two reins, the curb and snaffle. I should not know how to get along without them and they are so much nicer than one. I should much prefer a riding dress of my own, but Saidee is glad to lend me hers I know and there is so little time longer now that I do not mind it. She got me some riding gloves in the city the other day that are pretty but do not suit me at all. I told her not to get any that cost over $ 1.25 but she paid fifty cts. more and now I am not satisfied at all. Shall I change them the next time I go down if possible. I want more of a drab color and deeper gauntletts. I should nothave sent by her, but was in great need of them for I hate to have to borrow gloves everytime I ride. Owing to this boil I have not ridden since week ago last Tuesday but in a few days I can go again. It has been the means of saving tickets and I shall ride a good deal I hope before I go home. What a sad case that was about the little George boy! I don't remember him at all. Is it Darius George's son? I thought of father and that it was his birthday Thursday when I was in bed and had a chance to think of everything. I hoped it would be a pleasant day for you all. I did what I thought he would most approve - via. read the N.Y. Daily Tribune, containing a full acct. of the first session of the Chicago Convention. I have a better chance for news now for a friend of Miss Powellssends her the Daily Tribune and in addition she has the Semi Weekly Post, and Anti Slavery Standard. I can have them any time I have chance to read. Aren't you glad that Colfax is vice-president? I almost wish it were in inversed order. Colfax and Grant would sound better to me than Grant and Colfax, and the signification would strike me as better too. I would have liked the maple honey, but I had so many things that I missed nothing. Do not regret the fact that you did not send it for it might have made me sick. Well I have got pretty tired writing so long and will say good bye with a heart full of love for you all. Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

January 7, 1867

Text

Vassar College Jan. 7, 1868. My dear father, It is eight o'clock and as I wrote Mother, my first letter shall be to you. I started from Brooklyn just before two o'clock yesterday afternoon and New York at precisely 2-30. It took nearly all the time to reach the depot. Such havoc as the last snow-storm has made in the streets can hardly be imagined. W e were obliged to cross Broadway by the Astor House to take the 8th Ave. cars and the mud was very thin and deep. By the vigorous... Show moreVassar College Jan. 7, 1868. My dear father, It is eight o'clock and as I wrote Mother, my first letter shall be to you. I started from Brooklyn just before two o'clock yesterday afternoon and New York at precisely 2-30. It took nearly all the time to reach the depot. Such havoc as the last snow-storm has made in the streets can hardly be imagined. W e were obliged to cross Broadway by the Astor House to take the 8th Ave. cars and the mud was very thin and deep. By the vigorous efforts of a policeman we succeeded in dodging between the muddy carriages, trucks &c. We made good time for we were somewhat less than three hours coming up.I think that nearly all the girls are back, though there were quite a good many seats vacant in chapel this morning. The Chicago girls came this morning at five o'clock and the President was with them. Mrs. Morrill came to the depot with me yesterday. She said she hated terribly to have me come away for it would be very lonely and quiet there without me. I rather hated to come away for I have enjoyed every moment of my visit there to the uttermost it seems to me. We hoped to go to Wallack's Monday or Tuesday night but it was too stormy to admit of such a thought for a moment, besides Mr. Morrill was not well enough to go out either night. Your letter containing the advice in regard to late hours & was there before me. I believe I carriedout your suggestions to the letter in all respects, for I have been very steady all the time. Several nights, however, I have sat up to read or write till after eleven, for when I am obliged to go to bed every night for nine months at ten I think there can be no injury in that for a week or two. I don't know what you will think when I confess that I came back "out of pocket11 and am in need of a small sum of money. I spent very little in N.Y. because I had two or three bills to pay before going there. I hear that business is very dull and am afraid that money is scarce in consequence. Don't send me any more than you can spare perfectly well and I will try to be as careful in spending it as possible. I hope you found out from Charlie how we spent thetime when he was there and I have tried to write about the rest. Mr. Morrill liked him unusually well and thinks he is destined to succeed well in business. I have not heard from home since Monday and that letter was mailed before the great storm that I think must have visited you as well as other quarters. The letter was delayed one day and I conclude that you did not escape. I suppose we shall not recite much today except in Latin, but as that comes at four o'clock we ought to be able to learn the lesson. I have a criticism to write some time today and then I shall have only one more to write before my "term of office" shall expire. I am rejoiced at that. I am at the end of my sheet, & must not spend any more time and in writing. With much love to you all, Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, *70I was glad to hear back and by Mamma's letter that Gracie has not the ofret. Please tell her that I appreciate his efforts to write me a letter after so long. I wish BLANK and me BLANK. I want corresponse the two like this. But it is not flattering. Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

December 25, 1868

Text

Brooklyn. Dec. 25, 1868. My dear friends all, I am here and have been well domesticated for three days- Charlie arrived this morning hale & hearty, safe & sound, but I judge from his looks that the general temperature of his body was not very high. The pier was pretty well filled with ice and the boat much delayed, but he swung off at the first opportunity and got around here about half past eight. We were all very glad to see him. This afternoon we are going up town and shall stop to... Show moreBrooklyn. Dec. 25, 1868. My dear friends all, I am here and have been well domesticated for three days- Charlie arrived this morning hale & hearty, safe & sound, but I judge from his looks that the general temperature of his body was not very high. The pier was pretty well filled with ice and the boat much delayed, but he swung off at the first opportunity and got around here about half past eight. We were all very glad to see him. This afternoon we are going up town and shall stop to see Hamilton Palmer at 5*h Ave. Hotel.We have decided not to go to any place of amusement tonight because they will all be so crowded - but tomorrow night we shall go to hear the Oratorio of the Messiah- I am enjoying everything very much and hope to have a good time for the next two weeks. In regard to dissipation I do not think I shall go into it very hard, but I have been so very quiet for three or four months that it wont hurt me to have a little change. Charlie says that Seth goes to Lisbon Monday night and he shall go Wednesday. I am quite desirous to go too, but have not made known my wish to any one. I have got a new hat and it is quite pretty I think. Rilla and I have been at work on a dozen dolls that we took to dress for a small Lutheran church on Atlantic Ave. where she has a class in Sabbath School. We dressed eight yesterday and hope to do the rest today. I got along very nicely coming down here, but did not find any one at the depot. However when I got to the "West St. cars I found Rilla looking for me. She had searched in vain for me at the depot and finally thought she should be more apt to find me waiting for the cars. There were 150 Vassar girls on board the train and you may imagine how large a crowdthere was of the friends waiting for them. I hope to get an opportunity to write Nell an answer to her nice long letter - It was splendid and I would give a good deal to get such a one every week. I hope she will write us what she has decided about her dress. He does not know what she wants and says she wrote him that she would write her decision to me - Have the dress made very long. a It might as well have^three quarters of a yd. train as one for the injury that will come to it. I hope she will have it trimmed with satin folds. I should advize two or three narrow folds and then below them a plaiting of narrow satin ribbon - the sash should be very short andbowed up into a big bunch - She has the figure for the Grecian Bend and when she has the lump on I hope she will not yield to the temptation to affect it - ahem! I cannot write much more now but will write again very soon. I hope for a letter from some of you today. As ever yr. loving Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

May 10, 1868

Text

Vassar College, May 10. 1868. My darling mother, Chapel service is over and I have certainly lively surroundings to affect the tone of this letter. Miss Smith, Monks, Dwight, Rice and Penfield are discussing the sermon. I occasionally listen and say a few words for you know I am not noted particularly for being silent under such circumstances. However in spite of my reputation at home for "much speaking" I believe I am the only quiet one in the room. For some reason I don't... Show moreVassar College, May 10. 1868. My darling mother, Chapel service is over and I have certainly lively surroundings to affect the tone of this letter. Miss Smith, Monks, Dwight, Rice and Penfield are discussing the sermon. I occasionally listen and say a few words for you know I am not noted particularly for being silent under such circumstances. However in spite of my reputation at home for "much speaking" I believe I am the only quiet one in the room. For some reason I don't feel in a talkative mood. I received the short letter from you yesterday and was as anxious as ever to get it. I was the only one in our parlor who had one all day. I have just writtenanother letter to Aunt Maria, but it is a wretched letter, rather worse than I usually write I believe. I am in hopes to get my box by next Saturday, and if you send it by Wednesday morning should think it would be here, but there is always a great delay in express boxes reaching the girls. Monday P.M. I have just received lather's letter containing some of the "needful." Please tell him I am exceedingly obliged to him and as for not being bashful about asking for it, I should think I was not. Am sure I will not need to send for any more unless something I do not know of now, comes up. I don't know a bit of news to write except that I took another ride this morning and did not go out of the ring because there were two girls riding who are not good enough riders. I never came"dying of laughing" as I did while over there. I can't give you any sort of an idea of it but when I get home shall not fail to tell you someday when we both need a laugh. I laughed till I cried. Our class meeting went off very well the other night. I probably told you that I was Mrs. Nickleby. I wore a black silk turned down in a deep point at the neck and wore one of those collars you sent me. My hair was powdered and done up with puffs at the sides. My cap was of muslin trimmed with black ribbon. I shall not act again if I can help it for I prefer to look on. I shall not tell you that I do not like my things for I am sure I shall. It would be a fine return wouldn't it? I hope Sue and Riley will both be rested and benefitted by the visit to her father's. Father writes that Riley is having something of his old difficulty. How fortunate that he is out of the store. They will get home only a little before I shall. I am too Impatient for anything to get home-Well I must get my Trigonometry for tomorrow and stop writing. Do write me just as often as you can and tell me where you go, and who comes to see you. I am interested in everything. Your affec. Msry. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, «70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

January 23, 1869

Text

Vassar College. Jan. 23. 1869. My dearest mother, I was so glad to get your letter and Nell's postscript yesterday* and, if possible, next Monday night shall bring you another letter from "Vassar." You mistook me or since I wrote have forgotten I think, that Tuesday night is the night you need never expect a letter. My letters reach you on the third day, and as I cannot send one Sunday of course you can never get it Tuesday. I shall send this tonight and it will reach you... Show moreVassar College. Jan. 23. 1869. My dearest mother, I was so glad to get your letter and Nell's postscript yesterday* and, if possible, next Monday night shall bring you another letter from "Vassar." You mistook me or since I wrote have forgotten I think, that Tuesday night is the night you need never expect a letter. My letters reach you on the third day, and as I cannot send one Sunday of course you can never get it Tuesday. I shall send this tonight and it will reach you Monday, so much for this. You must wonder at my unsteady handwriting, but will no longer perhaps when I tell you that I am writingbefore breakfast, and not having been long awake I don't feel quite settled. I dreamed of Harry last night and this morning it seemed exactly as If I had really seen him. I thought that he was here and we went over to see Mr. St Miss Mitchell, carrying them some beautiful flowers. But the dream didn't last long enough for me to Inquire anything about home. X do hope that he will come here, but of course we can't tell now what will happen then. Nell wrote that you were about starting for Newbury to attend the last day of Mr.Root's convention. Did you have a good time? Now Just stop and think how very much I should like to know who was there & what they did and you will write me all about it, or tell Nell so that she can write it to me.Sat. noon. Last Thursday morning I went Into Miss Lyman*s library for a moment when she made me sit down and asked ever so many questions about myself and how I was getting along. She said I was getting tired again she could see plainly and asked me to go and see Miss Avery at noon. Just before I went out she asked me If I would like to go driving with her at two o'clock. Of course I was very much delighted at the prospect of going out for a sledding, but all the morning I felt a little anxious for fear that I shouldn't drive right and something would happen for we had a very frisky horse, but she said she would trust me If I was In the habit of driving in New Hampshire. It was an honor hardly inferiorto any in the College to be Invited by her to go riding for I never hoard of her doing such a thing. She always goes with some of the teachers and the girls wondered greatly at my good fortune, while some thought they should rather do anything then be along with her for an hour. I had a delightful time and she had me drive somewhere that I have never beea before and we had two magnificent views, taking the the Catskills, Fishkills a part of the Highlands end the bluffs of the Hudson for a long ways. She asked me if I had ever beea away before to school aad whea I told her I had beea to St. Johasbury she said she knew all about that place aad then inquired for Dr. Brooks- It seems that he is a very old friend of hers and at one timetaught Latin in her school at Montreal. She thinks a great deal of him and as I do also we agreed on his many excellencies. She has met severe of the Fairbanks family, but says she does not know them at all well. I received a letter from Maggie today In which she says she is in very poor health and unless she becomes better soon, cannot live long. She says she cannot die and leave her baby. Darling mother how I do want to see you! You have no idea how much of my time I am thinking of you all and wishing wishing wishing that I was there. S I were not to graduate next year I certainlywould not come back. I am waiting now with my hat and shawl on for Annie to finish dressing so that she can go with me to walk. Sometimes I get very tired of this routine but after all it is Just what does me so much good. I think everything of my new shawl and it seems to me that I could not have been better pleased. In a letter from Saidee recd this week she sent her father's picture. He sent it himself and I was very much pleased with it. She is having a very gay time, but is not always quite happy I am sure. Her mother is not such a one as mine is and I am sorry for her.Annie will soon be ready and this must be also if I send it tonight. Give bushels of love to all of my dear friends and tell Nell that I have not had one of her nice letters in over two weeks. Your loving Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

January 8, 1867

Text

Vassar College. Jan. 8, 1867 ii.e. 1868, My Dear Mother I am here, and without trouble. Everything has gone well with me so far and I hope will continue to do so the rest of my time here. I got to the college just after they had gone to tea but as my own stock of provisions has not failed and I felt disinclined to make my advent to the supper room after they were all seated, I ate some gingerbread and waited patiently for the girls to come. It seemed to me that they would never get out of... Show moreVassar College. Jan. 8, 1867 ii.e. 1868, My Dear Mother I am here, and without trouble. Everything has gone well with me so far and I hope will continue to do so the rest of my time here. I got to the college just after they had gone to tea but as my own stock of provisions has not failed and I felt disinclined to make my advent to the supper room after they were all seated, I ate some gingerbread and waited patiently for the girls to come. It seemed to me that they would never get out of chapel and they said Dr. Raymond showed strong symptoms of detainingthem all night. They caught a glimpse of my scarlet shawl just as they came in and I received a very demonstrative welcome. It seemed much better to come now then it did last September when no one was the happier or otherwise for seeing me and I felt like a wanderer but I felt rather blue after all. This morning I am all right and in pretty good spirits. I am going to Miss Lyman at half past eight this morning and will write you the result of the interview. I do not apprehend any difficulty, but still she may be unwilling to excuse me. I came by way of New York with Miss Marston and her brother met her there. They were both so kind to me, I shall not forget it. He got me a hackman to carry me them all night. They caught a glimpse of my scarlet shawl just as they came in and I received a very demonstrative welcome. It seemed much better to come now then it did last September when no one was the happier or otherwise for seeing me and I felt like a wanderer but I felt rather blue after all. This morning I am all right and in pretty good spirits. I am going to Miss Lyman at half past eight this morning and will write you the result of the interview. I do not apprehend any difficulty, but still she may be unwilling to excuse me. I came by way of New York with Miss Marston and her brother met her there. They were both so kind to me, I shall not forget it. He got me a hackman to carry me -cuse and she had already written my name down as excused. You have no idea how nice she was and I got along so nicely- She has refused to excuse several of the girls, but I guess she liked it very much to have me dutiful enough to write about my absence. The reunion of girls is very pleasant indeed. I was very glad to see several of them. I am so glad I feel better today than I did last night. You and father will be surprised to have me write that I do not feel the effects of my journey at all. We had such a nice time at Springfield. I want all my friends to go there and see how nice every thing is. Miss Marston is very companionable. She has roomed with Mrs. Shepard at New Hampton and is quite an intimate friend of hers. I have just had another lunch rom my biscuit, gingerbread, cake fcc. I can't begin Trigonometry- for a few days because the books have not come, but Miss Braislin gave us some insight into Logarithms this morning. I am going to try to like it and I guess it will be nice. I feel so provoked to think I should leave those three nice pencils in the secretary instead of my trunk. I wonder if one or two could not be sent in papers. They are just the kind I want and better than they have in the office. It is nearly dinner time and I must finish this letter or it wont get there Friday. I hope you will write me soon and tell every one you see to do the same. I forgot to enjoin the necessity upon them of writing immediately. As ever. Your loving Mary Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 28, 1867

Text

Vassar College Nov. 28th. 1867. My Dear Harry: This Thanksgiving reminds me of the one last year when you and I went to Sugar Hill and ate dinner with Grandma Brooks. It rained that day before we got there I remember and so it does now so hard that I do not care to venture out for a walk. I think we are in no danger of starving to death today. I have just been up to No. 79 - my old room and have eaten all I thought I had better for once. Miss DeWitt got a box last night containing about three... Show moreVassar College Nov. 28th. 1867. My Dear Harry: This Thanksgiving reminds me of the one last year when you and I went to Sugar Hill and ate dinner with Grandma Brooks. It rained that day before we got there I remember and so it does now so hard that I do not care to venture out for a walk. I think we are in no danger of starving to death today. I have just been up to No. 79 - my old room and have eaten all I thought I had better for once. Miss DeWitt got a box last night containing about three quarts of grapes, a box of figs, large Havana oranges, a lot of splendid apples, elegant French candies, two kinds of nice cake, almonds and peanuts. Then I amgoing to eat cake and ices at another room at one o'clock and then we have dinner at four o'clock. I suppose the dinner will be splendid as it always is they say. I presume I shall send the bill of fare to Mother sometime. We had a splendid lecture last night by Wendell Phillips. You would have enjoyed it very much for he told the funniest stories. The subject was Street Life in Europe and he illustrated foreigners by the most amusing stories you ever heard. I should like to tell you a few of them and hear you laugh at them. I expected to be disappointed in him for I had gotten my ideas raised up to quite a high pitch, but he was every thing I had expected him to be. He had no notes at all and just stood at one side of the desk so that every one could see him.Miss Blatchley the president of the Philalethean Society introduced him and I never saw anything done more beautifully than that was. Tonight Pres. Raymond is going to read us Midsummer's Night's Dream. Did you have a good time with Nell when she was at Lisbon last week? I suppose of course you danced with her at the Promenade Concert. Harry, I wish you would write to me before long. I don't see why you do not. You have not written me a single letter since I have been at Vassar, and only a very short one while I was in Brooklyn. I shall not feel like returning good for evil much longer. Give much love to all the family and to Em also. I shall begin a letter to her today if I can. Your affectionate sister Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 21, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Nov. 21. 1868. My dearest Father* You were very kind to write me this week in mother's absence. I should, indeed, have missed her letter exceedingly if it had not been for yours. It seems a long time since I heard a word from her, for her last week's letter was very short. Harry wrote me a few words yesterday which I recd today at noon- I shall write to him and also to dear little Grade as soon as I get off this "high pressure" system which seems to fall to... Show moreVassar College. Nov. 21. 1868. My dearest Father* You were very kind to write me this week in mother's absence. I should, indeed, have missed her letter exceedingly if it had not been for yours. It seems a long time since I heard a word from her, for her last week's letter was very short. Harry wrote me a few words yesterday which I recd today at noon- I shall write to him and also to dear little Grade as soon as I get off this "high pressure" system which seems to fall to my lotjust now. My health is better I think. Today I went down to dinner and should have enjoyed it very much if the noise had not disturbed me somewhat. Miss Goodwin - my favorite teacher - took me to her room directly from dinner and gave me some delicious Catawba grapes. I sat down in her easy chair and had a delightful half hour with her. She is from Connecticut, and one of the most highly cultivated women I ever saw. I think every thing of her and she seems to of me, so we have very nice times together. You can't imagine hew much I wish I was going to be at the musical convention at home. If after the 11th of Dec. I get as tired as I have been this week I shall start for home at once and stay till Jan. 6th if you all are willing and think it best, but I have no idea that I shall be. My essay will probably be finished week from tonight. Then the committee will pass judgment on it. if it satisfies them Prof. Backus will then take it to correct and a severe criticism it will get, too, at his hands I am sure. I shall not be sorry for that you may be sure for it will make it all the better of course to be corrected by a discriminating critic-I think mother ought to write me one very long letter next week or two shorter ones to make up for her past neglect. I expected to go to town today to get what things I want before the 11th, but was not quite strong enough. Isn't it splendid that we are to have four days vacation next week? I expect to accomplish great things then. I don't think of anything more that I could aay concerning myself or any body else-Tell Nell that I am very impatient for a letter from her. Much love to mother and all the brood. Yr. affec. Mary Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

December 15, 1868

Text

Tuesday Morn. Dee. 15, 1868. Dearest Mother, I didn't get your letter that came yesterday morn till nearly ten o'clock because the girls thought I had none so I did not go to see. So you have bought me a pair of boots for winter. I am sure that I should like them better than these that I have because they button, but these are very warm and high although they lace, and I shall like them very much. They cost four dollars. About the empress cloth - of course it is too late for you to... Show moreTuesday Morn. Dee. 15, 1868. Dearest Mother, I didn't get your letter that came yesterday morn till nearly ten o'clock because the girls thought I had none so I did not go to see. So you have bought me a pair of boots for winter. I am sure that I should like them better than these that I have because they button, but these are very warm and high although they lace, and I shall like them very much. They cost four dollars. About the empress cloth - of course it is too late for you to make the skirt and sacque now so I will let her go on and fix it the best way she can as I car- ried it to her last Saturday - She said she could do it but there wouldnot be enough to turn it with the same cloth. I should like a gara baldi waist made of it very much but perhaps it would not be best for you to have it done. This waist is very much soiled and the lining is almost filthy. I have thought that I would like my garnet silk made short and trimmed as the waist is with bias silk pinked. It could be done easily If I had the silk here. What do you think about it? I hope you will be able to send me a cloud(?)« It would be so nice to wear over my hat or any way and less work than to make a hood- I am in the greatest hurry and must close now in order to get this mailed tonight If you have not sent the things to me you may send acake or two of soap as mine will not last through the year Tell Nell to write me at once As ever Mary Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

May 4, 1868

Text

Vassar College. April 26. 1868. My dear Mother It seems to me that I have ever so much to write you today although I wrote you quite a letter yesterday. Saidee has just come in and wants to have me go to walk with her, so I guess I will. Have returned from my walk and feel much better for It. The air is so clear and the sunlight invigorating. We staid out nearly an hour, went down by the brook and around the loveliest paths in the grounds. I am so glad Harry had the picture of Saidee copied... Show moreVassar College. April 26. 1868. My dear Mother It seems to me that I have ever so much to write you today although I wrote you quite a letter yesterday. Saidee has just come in and wants to have me go to walk with her, so I guess I will. Have returned from my walk and feel much better for It. The air is so clear and the sunlight invigorating. We staid out nearly an hour, went down by the brook and around the loveliest paths in the grounds. I am so glad Harry had the picture of Saidee copied for I wanted one of that kind very much. She will get another one taken if possible for me and I have not told her that you have it. She is very changeable in her looks, sometimes she is positively handsome and at others not st all so. Her white alpaca is particularly becoming to her. When you get this letter she will probably be riding horseback before Mr. Vassar's carriage, as she is one of the young ladies who are to escort him here Founder's Day. I hope we shall have a good time and especially that the Cantata will pass off well. We have had so much rehearsing to do that we are about tired out. Yesterday I did not attend one for I did not feel well enough, and I am glad of it for I feel very well today, and just because I rested so much yesterday. Anna Dickinson came about threeo'clock yesterday - she and Miss Avery went immediately to the Observatory to see Miss Mitchell and they had tea taken over there from the college. I wish I could tell you about her lecture but I can't say one word. I love, honor, and admire Anna Dickinson from this time henceforth and forever. "Them's my sentiments." Savoir We are all so full of admiration and ecstacy that we can't say anything at all but sit and look at each other. "Silence louder than words" you know. She is a splendid looking woman and was dressed in very good taste. Heavy black silk - lace collar and under- sleeves. Her hands are elegant and she gestures very gracefully. Several girls were invited over to Miss Mitchell's after the lecture and staid an hour & half. Miss Dickinson left at twelve o'clock for New York. She was very much pleased with what she saw of the surroundings here but could not stay to see very much. She is going to be here at Commencement. Won't that be nice? The Philalethean Society have decided to have Henry Ward Beecher or Dr. Storrs deliver an address the night before commencement. Last Tuesday night I went to hear Parepa. She sings gloriously. I was above earth for two hours if I ever was. She is such a large, fine looking woman, and does not effect a stage smile at all. I enjoyed looking at her almost as much as hearing her. Prof. Farrar says that is always a great part of the charm about her and it is true. Carl Rosa played three violin solos which very very beautiful and I enjoyed them exceedingly in spite of the fact that he looks like Benuci Morre and reminds me of him every way. He & Parepa did not appear together as you may well imagine. I do not think the contrast would appear at all favorable to him. Friday night the Mendelssohn Club gave a concert with Addie Ryan as soloist. I was glad when the time came that I had not made arrangements to go, for with Saturday's work before me I felt that I had better go to bed. There were seventeen carriages containing eighty five girls and they say it was splendid. Some liked Miss Ryan very much, while others did not. Just think of my seeing the two women Parepa and Anna Dickinson the same week, whom I have so long wanted to see. After church. Have listened to quite an interesting and lengthy sermon by Rev. Mr. Wines - a Baptist minister from the city. He reminded me very much of Mr. Gray- Sarah's father. Dr. Raymond is ill I understand probably suffering from one of his frequent attacks. He is a splendid man and I like him better and better. One thing I must not forget to write about and that is - if it will be too much trouble for you to get fringe for my dress you can take some kind of narrow gimp for heading and a fold of bias silk of the same color. I am not at all particular which. I shall have a hat to match the suit. If you can I would like to have you send me a bit of the goods when it comes. Did you say that you and Sue were going to have a ponjee dress too? I hope so.When I get home I want to read Woman's Wrongs - Gail Hamilton's new book - to you. I think it is just as nice as it can be and will give you a good idea of what Anna Dickinson's lecture was. It was such nice work to draw our maps but I was very glad indeed when mine was finished. Monday Morning. I took another ride at eight o'clock this morning. Baron Von Seldeneck has said that no lady should ride out in the grounds till she had taken at least three lessons in the ring under his charge, but this is my second lesson, and I rode before with Madame. He ordered a horse for me that he don't often give to new ones and took me out with two other girls who have ridden ever so much. The horse is rather hard to ride, but was very manageable and I got along very nicely- Saidee says it was a great thing for Baron to let me ride out so soon. One of the teachers asked him to let her go last week and he would not. I am very much interested in it and think it will do me so much good. I waatrto give you one more direction about my dress, and that is, to make the pelisse longer than Saidee's - not very much but longer. I believe I have nothing more to write this morning. Write me just as much as you can without hurting yourself. I do like to get them so much. Have enjoyed life within the last two weeks because you have written so frequently. Tell Hal I will write him after the excite- ment of Founder's Day is past. Mary- Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 6, 1867

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Vassar. Nov. 6. 1867. My Dear Father: Tonight Just before tea we got the news that New York has gone eighty thousand democratic ma jority and we don't think of much else. What a shame it is! Any one would think by the enthusiasm and demonstrations of joy on one side and dejection on the other that this was a school of politics. The Democrats are out in flying colors, white, blue, scarlet fee while the others have on nothing but black ribbons and black dresses altogether. In the eight o... Show moreVassar. Nov. 6. 1867. My Dear Father: Tonight Just before tea we got the news that New York has gone eighty thousand democratic ma jority and we don't think of much else. What a shame it is! Any one would think by the enthusiasm and demonstrations of joy on one side and dejection on the other that this was a school of politics. The Democrats are out in flying colors, white, blue, scarlet fee while the others have on nothing but black ribbons and black dresses altogether. In the eight o'clock class of gymnastics tonight there were only ten out of a hundred who were democrats. I think thatspeaks pretty well for our class. Vassar is a loyal institution I assure you. I was very glad indeed to get your letter Monday morning. Many thanks for the money. I was about out so it was very acceptable. I will not be afraid to ask when I need it but I do not want to be obliged to send very often. You ask if I practice at all on the piano. I have not touched one but three or four times since I came away and I left my music at home so I have nothing to practice. I have been thinking I would send for a few pieces and if some of you will take the trouble to send some I would like all my duetts, Marche des Tambours, Bolfero Brillant, Retour du Printemps and perhaps Mountain Stream though I am not very particular. I am very busy now and can hardly see where the time isto come from and as Christmas is only six weeks off perhaps I had better not have any piano or regular prac- tice hour till after then. I hope to have more time then and for your sake I will practice if I have to steal the time. Your letter determined me to do so if possible - I think piano rent is very high here, but do- not know just how much they charge. The Prof of Music is just such a person as I would like to take music of, but he only hears them play occasionally as he can only be here from New York two days in a week. If I could take lessons of him I should like it very much. We are drilled twice a week by him in chorus singing. He tried my voice and said it was a good one at which I was very much sur- prised, as I had a cold and was not in my usual singing order. He put me with the first sopranos. If you send the music I wish moth er would send in it some black ribbon - not very wide and as thick as she can find. It is growing quite like November here and seems more like New Hampshire than it has before. Till a short time ago it has been very warm and pleasant, but I believe there was a little snow seen this morning. I did not see it however. I don't get many letters from Sister lately and this week I have felt quite blue and homesick. My algebra has been troubling me a good deal and I have thought I should be glad when Christmas came and I should be through with that as well as Geometry. It is half past nine and I must finish my Latin lesson for tomorrow which will take till bedtime. Love to all my dear ones. Your affec. Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 3, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Nov. 3. 1868. My dear Father, I was very glad Indeed to get your letter today. I was thinking only a few days ago that you had not written me at all this year, but I think I hear about as much of you as if you did for people don*t usually write so much about themselves as others do of them. This is a beautiful day for election and I expect the result will be equally bright. Prof. Backus will tell us every thing as soon as it can be known. I think myself fortunate in reciting... Show moreVassar College. Nov. 3. 1868. My dear Father, I was very glad Indeed to get your letter today. I was thinking only a few days ago that you had not written me at all this year, but I think I hear about as much of you as if you did for people don*t usually write so much about themselves as others do of them. This is a beautiful day for election and I expect the result will be equally bright. Prof. Backus will tell us every thing as soon as it can be known. I think myself fortunate in reciting to him for he tells us all about public affairs and tells us where to find the best information in regard to them. By his advice our class of five have commenced a course of reading in History which he thinks will be as entertaining as the best novelists' writings and be of much more benefit. I find his testimony true in my case having become much interested in the Conquest of Granada by Irving. In honor of election, I suppose, the Steward gave us ice cream for dessert today at dinner. It was the nicest that I have ever eaten and we enjoy our part of the celebration of the day exceedingly. My health continues very good and I do not feel at all inclined to lose my lessons at present as I should be obliged to if I went to New York as Nell and you both suggest. It would be very pleasant but not advisable now I think. Thursday P.M. This morning I received a letter from Mrs. Morrill urging me to come immediately to New York, saying that they would be delighted to see me and that X must not delay a moment. She evidently wrote in the full expectation of seeing me soon but I wrote her yesterday that I could not think of leaving here without better reason than I now have. If I should go it would not be to go away from sickness, but merely for pleasure and I will not do any such thing- The girls are doing very nicely - One of the sickest ones wrote two letters this morning. I mean that she was not is oneof the worst cases, and all of them are getting along very well. We have had very bad weather nearly all the time and what girls had not already the seeds of disease when they came, I am convinced, took it through exposure to the sudden changes we have had by not dressing thickly enough. I took a dose of Copp's nectar this morning and it tastes exactly like Pierce's - X would give a fig for choice between them. I wear my very loosest(?) dresses and am careful every way. I can assure you I think that there are no filthy places about here- Everything is a model of neatness and since the sickness they have had thorough investigations of everything again and again.Of course I am very proud of what N.H. has done in the election of Grant. A letter from Mr. lde, written before the result was known predicted the largest majority from Kentucky of all the states (Dem. of course) and Mass. next. Republican. I am in a great hurry for it is almost time for the last mail to go and I must go to practice in a few moments. Prof. Ritter heard me play my Sonata the other day and he says I am doing just right in my music. I hope to get letters from Lisbon this week and especially from Mother. Love to all. Your aff. Mary- Mary (Parker) Woodworth, »70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

March 22, 1868

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Vassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. Sunday Morning Mar. 22. 1868. My dear Mother: Under rather more favorable circumstances than last week do I sit down to write you. I have just come from Prof. Farrar's bible class and it is the most quiet time of the whole day in our rooms. The earth is fairly dazzling in the sunlight this morning - such a contrast to yesterday. It snowed and blowed furiously all day. I never saw anything like it and the expressman said he had not seen such a storm for... Show moreVassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. Sunday Morning Mar. 22. 1868. My dear Mother: Under rather more favorable circumstances than last week do I sit down to write you. I have just come from Prof. Farrar's bible class and it is the most quiet time of the whole day in our rooms. The earth is fairly dazzling in the sunlight this morning - such a contrast to yesterday. It snowed and blowed furiously all day. I never saw anything like it and the expressman said he had not seen such a storm for twenty nine years. We had so little preparation for it: every thing looked as if winter had entirely passed away and the grass was growing quite green in places. The first thing I knew of the change was the flapping of the blinds in the night, and then I supposed it was rain. We got our last mail about 4 P.M. three hours behind time. Miss Avery said she was awakened by the snow blowing into her face. I conclude from this that she doesn't approve of half-way ventilation. Miss Lyman went to Philadelphia Thursday morning to stay till she is in better health. She has been confinedto her own rooms for about two weeks. She has had a terrible cough the whole year. I noticed it in five minutes after I saw her the first time. We are afraid it is consumption, but Miss Avery does not think so. Miss Powell is going to write to her today and she thought it would be very grateful and pleasant to Miss Lyman if some of us would write a little note to put in with hers. I think I shall do so by and bye. You ask if I am growing indifferent on politics and elections. No indeed I am not, and if I had been in my normal condition last Sunday I should have expatiated to some length, but it was wholly impossible for me to write anything that day I was so glad to get get the news and glad of the result when I did^it. My supply of papers for the last two weeks has been very complete and gratifying. Friday I received two Boston Journals from Seth, and Father sent me a Concord paper earlier in the week. Last Thursday I was very much edified by the acct. of New Hampshire politics, in the N.Y. World. For the fun of it I would like a Patriot sometime along. The bitterness of that paper and Independent on the other side, always amuses me on acct. of the very ridiculous character it hasI was much pleased with the letter I had from Harry Friday and shall answer soon. It is so seldom I have the privilege of answering a letter it from him that I cannot neglect.A He Is doing so nicely in writing too. I am surprised at his correctness when he goes to school so little. Is there any of that stuff like my puffed waist left? Saidee wants a piece about as large as this page for her riding suit. I don't know whether it will be convenient for you to send it, but if it is she would like it very much. I am getting along very easily and well in my studies. My health is perfect so far as anything I can see. We shall have a week's rest soon and I shall expect to enjoy it very much. I did not expect to hear from Aunt Maria when I wrote to her for I know married women seldom write to any one but their own children* but I shall be so glad to get a letter from her if she will write. 1 don't know what has come over me lately about writing letters. I don't feel a bit like it ever and it is sort of a forced performance. I know this must be evident by the general style of them but I can't seem to throw it off. I think one reason is my dearth of news. The days are so much alike here that when one is told you have the sum total of my life here.I am going to send Gracie a little book from the Howard Mission with some little songs for children in it. Tell her she must keep it till I come home and I will sing them with her. The children sang some of them here and they are beautiful. You haven't said much about Sue lately - and, indeed, that is not strange, for your letters have been so short that you could not mention any one. Is there any prospect of Ellen's visiting her this summer? I hope there is. How long it has been since I have seen her I hear from her often through Charlie. I think I have said about all I know just at present. When my ideas are reinforced expect another letter. Much love to father, Hal and Gracie. Your own Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 24, 1867

Text

Vassar* Nov. 24. 1867 My Dear Mother: I did not get the expected and accustomed letter from you yesterday and was considerably disappointed though not so much so as I would have been under some other circumstances. Miss Powell invited all the girls who sit at her table to bring all their mending or whatever else there was to do in the sewing line to her room at nine o'clock and sew with her. We accordingly did so and had the most delightful time. We staid till twelve and enjoyed every... Show moreVassar* Nov. 24. 1867 My Dear Mother: I did not get the expected and accustomed letter from you yesterday and was considerably disappointed though not so much so as I would have been under some other circumstances. Miss Powell invited all the girls who sit at her table to bring all their mending or whatever else there was to do in the sewing line to her room at nine o'clock and sew with her. We accordingly did so and had the most delightful time. We staid till twelve and enjoyed every moment so much. She read a letter from Sibley Severance of three sheets for my especial bene--fit but it was of such a kind that all of them must enjoy it. He is a Junior at Harvard and the letter was splendid I assure you. She thinks he is a remarkably fine young man and I should judge so from what she tells me of him. He wants women to be admitted to Harvard and hopes they will be in time. We had two kinds of nice, large apples and then she read us one of Whittier's last short poems The last Autumn Walk, which is very beautiful. I bought a ticket for Wendell Phillips' lecture last night It will be next Wednesday night Tickets 50 cts. I am very glad I can hear him. Last night Prof. Farrar gave his Algebra class another lecture and if I had not had that pleasure in anticipation for the evening I could not have borne the disappointment of not receiving a letter from you so philosophicallyas I did. You would not wonder at my delight if you could once hear him. He is the star of Vassar I think, and best of all he graduated at Dartmouth. When he found out that I was from N.H. he seemed very much pleased and talked with me some time about it, asked me if I had ever heard of Laura Bridge man etc. I shall have so much to tell you that I will want a machine to talk through. I hope Nell staid with you Friday night as she intended when she wrote me. I thought of you and her so much that evening and really got to wishing myself there more than was for my happiness - then Miss Wilkinson went home that night and she was so delighted with the prospect I told her to enjoy every moment to the utmost for me, and she said when she kissed her mamma good night she would kiss her oncemore for me. It was almost too much for me and I was afraid I should not be able to keep from crying but as it was at dinner and I would have made myself conspicuous I choked back the tears and laughed it off. I have seen the eyes filled of a good many girls when I knew so well how they were feeling and pitied them too. There are girls here from about every southern state and every Western I think. You ought to see the loads of boxes that come to the girls - and whole barrels of apples even. They have chicken, pickles, oysters and every sort of thing you can imagine and Miss Lyman lets them have dishes and everything they want to eat with. There is much more latitude in such things than I supposed. Some of the girls like to eat better than anything else I should judge from... Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

December 25, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Dec. 20. 1868 My dear Mother, It is after eight o'clock and I am just commencing a letter to you. I didn't feel like writing this morning so have put it off till now. Hattie, Mary Gray and I are carrying on quite a brisk conversation so if my letter seems slightly confused you will not think strange. Mary is lecturing us for our sarcastic turn of disposition and we are both of us determined to get over it. I reed the express package Friday afternoon all right and was... Show moreVassar College. Dec. 20. 1868 My dear Mother, It is after eight o'clock and I am just commencing a letter to you. I didn't feel like writing this morning so have put it off till now. Hattie, Mary Gray and I are carrying on quite a brisk conversation so if my letter seems slightly confused you will not think strange. Mary is lecturing us for our sarcastic turn of disposition and we are both of us determined to get over it. I reed the express package Friday afternoon all right and was very much pleased witheverything. My shawl is lovely I think. If Al selected it tell him I am perfectly satisfied with it and am glad he did not abide by his first determination not to get one for me. The shoes are very nice especially the leather ones. I am so sorry that I bought some here now for I don't need them at all, but they are good ones and I shall wear them instead of the ones you sent me till they are worn out. I wore the cloud to town yesterday ever my hat and as it was the coldest day of the season It proved very comfortable- To whom am I indebted for the elegant brown paper parcels ? I couldn't help thinking of the story of the "LuckyHerring." in the bound magazines that father thinks you and I are continually reading. Charlie Cross wrote me a day or two since that he would be in Brooklyn in time for breakfast Friday - so I suppose he will stay over New years. That will be nice wont it? I have a German friend here who lives in Hoboken and she wants me to go to see her during the holidays. Alice Conkey is to spend the whole vacation with her and if I can I shall go over some day. The German's name is Emilie Wendt. Miss Lyman let me go to town alone yesterday — I'm getting quite fine to go to the grand city of Po'keepsie alone -Monday. I saw a copy of the N. Y. Evening Mail containing an acct. of one performance so for you I copied what it said of our essays. This paper is usually disliked on acct. of its personal character and tendency to gossip, but it is ably edited, and Dr. Walters was here and as wrote it. I regard these complimentsAvery much too flattering so far as I am concerned and not very discriminating, but the poem could hardly have been too highly praised. I rec' such a nice letter from Nell today. Tell her I shall write her from Brooklyn as soon as possible. I have my little trunk nearly packed and your shawl was already in before I reed the line from you.I am in a great hurry or I would write more. Tell Ed that I wouldn't have had him hear what I wrote in that letter for any thing and I am very much ashamed of it - I Just wrote it to gratify you - It was of little consequence to me what any one said after I had Prof. Backust approval. Your loving Mary Mary (Parker) Woodworth, Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 19, 1867

Text

Tuesday Morn. Nov. 19. 1867. Dear Mother: A letter from Nell this morning gives me the welcome news that she has finally made arrangements to stay with you Thursday night - no - Friday - night - and she wishes to go up on the Freight Sat. I am so glad she has concluded to stay for I am sure you will be only too glad to see her. She wished me to write to her so that she would get it at Lisbon. Please tell her I would do so if I had time but I cannot write her before the last of this week and... Show moreTuesday Morn. Nov. 19. 1867. Dear Mother: A letter from Nell this morning gives me the welcome news that she has finally made arrangements to stay with you Thursday night - no - Friday - night - and she wishes to go up on the Freight Sat. I am so glad she has concluded to stay for I am sure you will be only too glad to see her. She wished me to write to her so that she would get it at Lisbon. Please tell her I would do so if I had time but I cannot write her before the last of this week and she will be much more in need of one after she gets home and I will try to write her a long letter Saturday or Sunday. Tell Henry I feel under great obligations to him for the paper I received from him yesterday. Of course it was much better than a letter would have been, if you think it would be possible I would like a thick veil sent to me in a paper It is extremely cold and I need one very much that is thicker than gauze. I guess you will think I am sending for something all the time and I am nearly. I believe I wrote once for black ribbon. H you have not sent it you need not. Now I am afraid I wrote Sunday a little too much as if I wanted to come home, so in this I wish to say that perhaps I had better not do so for it is probably better that I should not and I don't want to have you let me come just because I want to. Let me see have I written every thing I wish to? I think I have every thing of importance. I hope you and Nell will have a realgood visit and I am sure you will. I do love Nell more than I can tell and I am very sure we shall always be the best friends, as we are now. I know she will urge you to let me come and when she was here I felt as if I must go, but do not let anything influence you against your own convictions. I would not for anything come and feel that you and Father thought I had better be here. if I could only get away from the Coll. I should not dread it much but I must say the prospect here looks rather gloomy. A person can stand any thing though if she has a will and this may be the best test I could have to prove my strong-mindedness. I presume you will get my usual letter next week as I shall probably write Sunday. The day after Nell was here the college was on fire for twelve hours, but it was in the cellar and we knew nothing of it till it was all over. Prof. Farrar says there was enough water used to completely bedrench the whole building. What a panic there would have been if we had known it. It was the coal that was on fire first. Two or three men fainted during the time. I have forgotten to mention it before. Give a great deal of love to Nell and tell I can't sufficiently thank her for granting me the favor. Yours as ever Mary. Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

February 26, 1868

Text

Vassar College, Feb. 26. 1868, My dear Harry: Expect no very amiable letter this time for I am anything but amiable, I fear. The principal cause of my unpleasant mood is that I have received no letters since Monday morning. Now you are partly responsible for this state of affairs and as such come in for a good share of my ire. Forbearance will cease to be a virtue in a very short time and at the end of that time I shall throw you off forever, either by a divorce or other equally effective... Show moreVassar College, Feb. 26. 1868, My dear Harry: Expect no very amiable letter this time for I am anything but amiable, I fear. The principal cause of my unpleasant mood is that I have received no letters since Monday morning. Now you are partly responsible for this state of affairs and as such come in for a good share of my ire. Forbearance will cease to be a virtue in a very short time and at the end of that time I shall throw you off forever, either by a divorce or other equally effective means. Here is another cause of irritation. Mother wroteme last Thursday night that Nell had then over a sheet written to me and I think it is high time for that to make its appearance. I will allow three days more of grace and if I don't get a letter from some of you at the end of that time I dissolve partnership with the whole set of Lisbonites and next summer adjust my sails for a new place to spend my vacation. Please inform father that it would look very pretty for him to write me once in a while as there is no law here to prevent written communication between the sexes, and if you should choose to write now and then I'll take the responsibility of having any disgrace there may be if it is "found out" that I correspond withmy brother. So don't allow any considerations on my to behalf prevent you from writing. I have just finished a piece for the paper to be read at our next society meeting and you must not wonder if my wits appear to have been exhausted previous to my commencing this letter. One literary effort is about enough for me to make in one day. I learned quite indirectly that you and Lucius were at St. Johns bury week before last and would be quite delighted besides feeling much honored by receiving a detailed account of it from your pen. Give all your eloquence an airing on that occasion for my benefit. I assure you I would do my best to appreciate and have no doubt I should succeed if the style should not be too inflated How did Miss Jennie look and appear? Are her home surroundings pleasant and are you sufficiently pleased with her relations to form an alliance with the family? Please speak minutely on this subject for the whole subject of my next summer's wardrobe hangs trembling on the scales ready to tip according to the result. I'm all ready to 11 stand up". Saidee is putting on her riding habit and Is acting quite giddy for a woman of her years. In fact she says her animal spirits are bound to run away with her. I can hear her in there now clapping her hands and cutting up generally. She says she hopes her animal wont have sufficiently high spiritsthis afternoon to run away with her. I fancy I can see her meandering around the ring plunging this way and that, for she is going to have a gay little pony. - Coquette - as her name signifies. Did you see any of my friends while you were at St. J? I would like to have been there with you very much. I would have taken you to Maggie's. I have a bill to send to father in this letter and will be obliged to you for giving it to him at once. I hope it does not come at the wrong time when money is particularly hard. We hear a little about the affairs at Washington but it is an extremely limited little. No papers have come to the college except private ones since the last excitement and we are crazy to know. I wish you would send me a Boston Journal if It is three weeks old before it gets here for I would enjoy seeing my old friend again and can get more information from it than all the New York papers put together. Now Harry put on the whole armor of activity and let laziness be henceforth and forever a stranger to you. If you do this I shall expect, and with reason too, a full supply of letters and papers. Do not allow my massive brain to wither for want of intellectual food. I should be happy to continue on in this brilliant and highly interesting strain indefinitely but "tempus fug it" as Nell says, so with adieu I remain your loving sister Mollie. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, *70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

May 17, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Sab. Morn May 17. 1868 My dearest mother You will be disappointed as I am that this letter can contain nothing about the box for it did not come and will not till tomorrow or Tuesday at 5 o'clock in the afternoon. Mr. Schou said it would take at least four days for it would come by a Freight train most of the way. I was afraid when I knew that it did not start Tuesday Wednesday morning, that It would not come and Mr. Schou confirmed my fears. It is of no consequence at... Show moreVassar College. Sab. Morn May 17. 1868 My dearest mother You will be disappointed as I am that this letter can contain nothing about the box for it did not come and will not till tomorrow or Tuesday at 5 o'clock in the afternoon. Mr. Schou said it would take at least four days for it would come by a Freight train most of the way. I was afraid when I knew that it did not start Tuesday Wednesday morning, that It would not come and Mr. Schou confirmed my fears. It is of no consequence at all however and if It had come it might have disturbed my quiet Sunday. A nice long letter from Jennie Colby yesterday helped me bear the disappointment with the greatest cheerfulness. Jennie is having a week's vacation now but it will close next Tuesday. Miss Carpenter will not stay at St. Johnsbury any longer. She went back to Conn, last Tuesday. Mrs. Colby's health is very delicate and Jennie has many fears for her. Jamie had an original declamation at the close of the spring term and made himself almost sick over it. How nice it is for her to have such a nice situation in the academy Mother she is the lonliest girl I ever saw I really believe. She has accidentally discovered that Mr. Ide and I correspond and asked me if I had lost all confidence in her so that I would not tell her. The girl went into his room to take care of it during breakfast and saw a letter on the table directed to me. She told Jennie and it afforded herself and Miss Carpenter considerable surprise. She says they were very de--sirous to bring him a letter from me but he was always at the office first and had baffled all their efforts. I think the whole affair is perfectly ludicrous. I am perfectly willing she should know it, but I did not want to tell her. We are having another little bit of pleasant weather. Saidee thinks of wearing a barfege this afternoon to chapel. I shall wear my green silk I think. We are having such lively times collecting wild flowers. W e have thirty six specimens already. Laura and Mary went off yesterday and got eight new ones. I put them in press which was quite a piece of work. I have a tin botany case which is very nice for the purpose. It is about a foot and long and oblong. It looks so funny to see a group of girls start off in gymnastic suits with these cases strapped on over their shoulders by the cord.Our new professor of Nat. History is a very fine instructor, Prof. Tenney's superior in that respect, but he can never go beyond him in others. An old teacher of Miss Lyman, Mrs. Bannister, is visiting her now. She is the Miss Grant who taught so much with Mary Lyon at Ipswich I think I have not written you that Miss Lyman returned three weeks ago. We were all very glad to see her again You ask what day I shall be at home. Friday - June 26th. five weeks from next Friday I am glad I can go some other way than by Springfield for there is to be a Masonic festival there the 24th. and I should not like to stop at a hotel alone with such a rush. We cannot make very good connections if we go from here to Albany in a boat, so we have almost decided to start from here at 3 o'clock on Thursday morning - going by cars to Troy in season to take the morning train to Whitehall. Your daughter will have the honor of skimming through Saratoga, which will be sufficient ground for a story that I "spent some time at Saratoga." Saidee says "give my love to your mother and tell her I am enjoying life and so are you (me)." Miss Penfield says "tell her you have got one of Job's comforters" which is literally true, but it is not very large nor painful much of the time. Don't waste any pity on me for it will be better by the time you get this. We got news last night of Johnson's acquittal by one vote. I do think it is such a disgrace but as Prof. Ferrer says the world moves on no matter who is president. Jennie Colby writes that she shall want to vote if they do acquit Johnson and she thinks s congress of women would do better than this one. That is quite a concession for her to make. I guess we shall all vote before we die yet. By the by Nell Cross is somewhat disturbed by my opinions on the question of Woman's Rights. She wrote me a lot about it the other day. We were very glad when you mentioned in your letter that you had sent me some cake. Don't make any apologies for the prospect of cake from home let it be ever so bad is refreshing. Laura says she should like it if it were "heavy as lead and sour as swill" - so you need not fear but what it will be appreciated. Saidee is already talk- ing about the letters we'll write to each other after we separate. I am going to the city after my suit comes and get a hat to match. I intend to get one that costs as little as possible. I shall get me some riding gloves also for I cannot get them at home and have got tired of borrowing every time I ride. Saidee and I are going to take a long ride Thursday. We expect to have a glorious time. I must not write any more now. Lovingly Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

February 23, 1869

Text

Vassar College, February 23. 1869. My dear Father I was very glad Indeed to get your long letter yesterday. I was not well and you know how much more gratifying letters are then than at any other time. Today I am excused from my lessons, but am really better than I was yesterday afternoon and last night. Just before going to bed I took quite a dose of Copp's bitters and of course I do not feel very strong today. My supper distressed me, but I do not know as they (the bitters) relieved me... Show moreVassar College, February 23. 1869. My dear Father I was very glad Indeed to get your long letter yesterday. I was not well and you know how much more gratifying letters are then than at any other time. Today I am excused from my lessons, but am really better than I was yesterday afternoon and last night. Just before going to bed I took quite a dose of Copp's bitters and of course I do not feel very strong today. My supper distressed me, but I do not know as they (the bitters) relieved me much. Several times this year I have taken them, but don'tthink they have done me much good. I don't have so much faith in their efficacy as in Pierce's. Last night Pres. Raymond read Hamlet to the students, faculty and teachers. I always enjoy his Shakespearian readings very much and anticipated a great deal, but was not able to go. I did not give up the idea till half an hour before time to go, but knowing that it would be better for me to stay in my room I finally decided to do so. It was very entertaining I am told. We should hardly have known that it was an American holiday if we had not sung America at the morning chapel service. The grand old hymn never sounded better to me in the world although our regular organist was gone and one had a poor substitute. For dinner we bad nothing at all extra except chocolate and a little nicer flavor to the lemon pie. I was invited to the German table, but as it was to celebrate the birthday of an American we thought it would be inappropriate to speak German. There were a good many guests at dinner and two or three at tea, all being friends of the young ladies. Wednesday Eve. No lessons tomorrow and I am happy as a queen tonight. I have had a splendid practice today and grow more and more interested in my music every day. I hope you will think I have made some progress next summer, though you must takeinto consideration the fact that three quarters of an hour is the most that I can give to practice. Saturdays and other days when I can possibly spare the time I go. Since writing the above I have practiced two hours and some what more. When Hattie got ready to go I thought I would go with her and am very rjlad that I did. How much I wish that Sarah Woodworth could have made me a visit as she went West. I know that it would have been very inconvenient for her to come down from Albany and it is a long tedious journey at the mo t. You will miss her very much I know. Nell was lamenting over the prospect of her going in her last letter to me.You can't imagine how surprised I was to hear that Mr. Fairbanks is going to marry Mrs. Colby. Was Mr. Harris sure that it would be so? How should any one know it? If it is really so I am just as glad as I can be, for it will a splendid thing for the children. In Jennie's last letter to me she spoke of enjoying me the privilege I had for so fine an education and said two years of school would do her so much good now, but as she could not have it she must try to learn as much in teaching as possible. Perhaps, as you suggest, she will come here next year. I could not express my joy if she should.Mr. Ide wrote me that Ida Morrill had gone to the Abbott Seminary at Andover so I think that Mr. Harrington must have been mistaken in thinking her at Mt. Holyoke. I would give so much to have her here. Mr. Ide had met her a short time before he wrote me last and said she spoke of me in a way that would have pleased me could I have heard her I certainly could return In full measure any thing she might say in my favor. Yesterday I received a letter from Em written at Waterbury in which she said that Mrs. Shipman had just recd a letter from grandma Brooks and she was worrying for fear that you would spend next winter in Florida. I should be sorryto have you go on her account, but on every other I sincerely hope you will do so. I read a description of an excursion up the St. John's river the first of this month written by the father of one of my last year's friends. She is in Jacksonville Fla. with her father on acct. of his health and she writes that he is improving fast. I know it must be very delightful there. She says she goes into orange groves and eats just as many as she can as often as she wants any. Charlie Cross wrote me a few days ago about your extreme kindness to him, said there seemed to be no limit to it and he felt that he owed much of his first success to you. Of course I was very glad to hear that.I hope Nell will be back before very long and stay several weeks. It seems like nothing the time that is left of this year, only sixteen weeks. I was delighted to hear of the progress of the children. If either of them should ever show any taste for the higher branches they both ought to have a solid foundation on which to rest their information that will come by reading and travel as they grow older. I know of nothing so necessary to a strong and active mind as mathematical discipline and a good knowledge of geography If I did not know how much Harry will regret sometime that he has not a thorough education I should not care half so much but when any one goes much into society a lack of it causes the greatest mortification. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

17 March, 1869

Text

Vassar College Wednesday Mar. 17. 1869 Darling Mother I received your letter so gladly day and was much more than glad that father is coming next week. Thought you will probably get a letter giving a few suggestions about his coming. Of course the longer that he can stay the better I shall like it if he leaves home on Thursday he will get here about Friday noon, and if not till Friday, at Saturday noon. I don't think that would leave much time to see the college and surroundings, still... Show moreVassar College Wednesday Mar. 17. 1869 Darling Mother I received your letter so gladly day and was much more than glad that father is coming next week. Thought you will probably get a letter giving a few suggestions about his coming. Of course the longer that he can stay the better I shall like it if he leaves home on Thursday he will get here about Friday noon, and if not till Friday, at Saturday noon. I don't think that would leave much time to see the college and surroundings, still less of Poughkeepsie. I have one recitation in the afternoon [?] half past three and quarter past four, but it is Latin Prose Composition and I couldbe exuded from that of course when either of my parents say so. We should need two or three hours here I think and then go to the city. When he gets to Po'keepsie he had better take a carriage to the Morgan House and then come here from there as soon as he chose. there are two front fours but he must come up the stairs on the outside of the building and ring. A servant will should him to the parlors and miss Morse probably will go to him there. He must say that he wishes to see his daughter. Miss Parker to the servant and she will give his name to Miss M. that is all that is necessary I believe for I shall be sent for immediately. I should like to ride about the suburbs with him more on his account than my own forif it is at all pleasant, I think I would enjoy it very much. He can get a carriage at the Morgan House to come here I am sure, and perhaps it might be well to reclaim it here till we get ready to go back. I culled be all ready when he comes and it would make it take long to make a survey of the building. You ask if I want anything in the way of clothes. I would like a dressing dacque and if all has any slippers I should like a parer of dacque may be just a common one made of white checked cambric or any thing similar to it. I should like some paper and envelopes too if there is any room for fair quality. For know that there was none when I came array except a thin and yellow kind that is not good for much. I need a new portemonnaie and diary. The latter need to washing at all once. All I want is first to put down a few little lines sometimes. What shall I do about my every day skirt? You know I had one made of white serge and did not have time to trim it at all. It has become really filthy and I can not send it in to be washed with my other clothes. I really don't know what to do about it but perhaps I can get a woman near here to wash it for me. If that one that I had trimmed with black braid last year is clean and presentable you might send that. I was glad to find from your letter that Nell has come back. I wrote her last Sunday and sent the letter to Walinford of course she must get it somehow yet. Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

April 10, 1868

Text

Vassar College* April 10, 1868. My dear Mother, I received your letter just before dinner and am going to write you immediately as I have plenty of time. The girls are making sugar candy over the gas - i.e. Laura and Saidee are, Miss Penfield is making herself an organdie muslin while your loving daughter is writing to her mother. Now that it is so well settled that I am to have a box I will tell you as fully as I can what I want. I went over to see the dressmaker Mrs. Green yester- day and... Show moreVassar College* April 10, 1868. My dear Mother, I received your letter just before dinner and am going to write you immediately as I have plenty of time. The girls are making sugar candy over the gas - i.e. Laura and Saidee are, Miss Penfield is making herself an organdie muslin while your loving daughter is writing to her mother. Now that it is so well settled that I am to have a box I will tell you as fully as I can what I want. I went over to see the dressmaker Mrs. Green yester- day and she measured me for a short skirt. I have decided to have a white marsailles short dress cut with a sacque. My skirt is to be 37 inches in front and 38 behind. I shall get a pattern of the sacque Monday and you may expect it by Wednesday or Thursday. I suppose Em would be willing to have the skirt trimmed off on her and I know of no one any nearer my size. The sacque is to turn back like a coat and I want a white waist to wear under it of course. This ought tobe as high in the neck as possible and made of linen - or the front at least. It will look in every respect like a man's shirt bosom, and, of course, is to be starched stigly. I am not particular how it is made, whether the tucks are fine or coarse, uniform or in groups. About such a matter you have fully as good taste as I, and you know fashion allows great latitude in the minor details of one's dress now-a-days. I want a plain white skirt short enough to wear with the dress. I don't know but what such a skirt would look better ruffled and a very few tucks - on second thought, what do you think? It is not an affair of much moment any way. Now as this letter will be the one refer- red to when you come to get the things ready I will write everything I think of. I spoke of having a white muslin waist. If you send one I would like it plain garabaldi or if ornamented at all - with puffs so instead of tucks. Jennie Penfield is making her muslin^and instead of leaving the cords on the outside she has them on the inside and they are farther apart than we made mine. I like it better I think. I think I shall need a thin waist for it will probably be too hot during Com- mencement to wear my silk waist. I am afraid I am laying out too much work for you. If I mention anything that you do not approve for any reason, you must say so. When you send my box you may send that braided chemise if you please. I shall want a skeleton - the smallest you can find and then I shall take out the top hoops - a pair of boots and I should like to have you send for a pair of kid gloves to match my walking suit whatever color that may be. I suppose you don't know any more th*« I, but you had better decide upon the material and color yourself. I like gray very much or steel. Saidee says I had better have ponjee as that is to be the thing of the seasoa. The bit I sent of hers is ponjee also the dress Nell got In New York. I think Nell's however was cheaper and perhaps you had better get a piece of her and tend for one like it for me. You must go by your own judgment in every thing. All I want to do is to suggest and leave all decision to you. Of course I could get my gloves here but it will probably be cheaper for sine Mr. Woodruff to get such things I wearA6 or 6 1/4 you know. I want my skeleton white. I can't think of anything more now that I want. In regard to the trimming of my dress. I think it had better be white - sort of gimp. I can get a sample In Poughkeepsie and send you or get the whole ofit and trim it after it comes. I am going to send you a piece of cloth for skirting thinking perhaps you will need a new skirt as well as myself and this is very nice - cost $.70 per yd. Aren't you tired of so much about dress ? Remember that you told me to be very particular in my directions. I must tell you about Carrie Young's last freak. I suppose father's admiration will be unbounded now, allowing that it has had a limit heretofore. She has run away and been married to a worthless fellow by the name of Sam Herroa - they are boarding at a hotel in Cincinnati now and her father will not allow her to come home. Annie says she thinks letters of condolence would be more appropriate than congratulation. What a contrast there is between the cousins. I never saw a girl that I admired more thoroughly than I do Annie Glidden. I wish you could know her. I received a letter from Aunt Maria yesterday. It was real nice and I enjoyed it ever so much. I shall write to her again before I come home certainly. She writes that Frank McKean has been at home. How could you be so heartless as to not write me about it? I have not yet perfected my arrangements to spend that week in New York which Mrs. McKean suggested.I have decided not to have anything done to my black dress except to mend up a few holes and re-plait it. It is so old I cannot do much more with it. Tell Sue I am delighted with the prospect she me offers of joining her party to the Mts. Wouldn't it be delightful. I do hope nothing will occur to prevent it and, more than all, the visit of her cousins and relatives for I want to see them very much indeed. I wanted to write to Hal week but to write so much to you that I could not. I shall write you a short letter Monday for I don't want a single Wed. to pass without bringing to you my letter. Lovingly Mary. Mary (Parker) Woodworth, '70 Show less

Creator

Woodworth, Mary

Date

November 19, 1868

Text

Vassar College. Nov. 19. 1868. My Dear Mother - You will be glad to hear, I think, that I am taking a little resting spell. My friends have been trying for a week to persuade me to go away for a few days or at least rest here and night before last I was willing to do it. Yesterday I staid in bed all day and today till after eleven o'clock then Miss Avery told me to go out for a short drive if I felt able and I did. Of course a ride in the clear, bracing hour of today greatly refreshed me... Show moreVassar College. Nov. 19. 1868. My Dear Mother - You will be glad to hear, I think, that I am taking a little resting spell. My friends have been trying for a week to persuade me to go away for a few days or at least rest here and night before last I was willing to do it. Yesterday I staid in bed all day and today till after eleven o'clock then Miss Avery told me to go out for a short drive if I felt able and I did. Of course a ride in the clear, bracing hour of today greatly refreshed me and I am feeling really better. Miss Avery said nothing ails me except that I am tired out and must rest. You have no idea how exceedingly kind every body is to me. I had a great many callers yesterday and have had several today. I never realised the goodness and number of my friends till within a week or two and of course it makes me very happy- I may go to my classes tomorrow, but shall not study any to hurt me this week. Amanda Wood's father sent her from S. Carolinatoday quite a large bbl. of oranges and we are enjoying them very much. I will write you again Saturday so that you will get it Monday. Meantime do not worry for there's nothing the matter with me at all. I recd. a letter from dear little Grade today. Kiss her for me a hundred times and tell her how happy it made me to get it when I was not feeling very well. I have kept up so well during all the sickness that I ought to have a resting spell now. Your loving Mary Mary (Parker) Woodworth. '70 Show less